Commerce Secretary Md Ataur Rahman Khan announced the price adjustment on Wednesday afternoon during a press briefing held at the Secretariat. The announcement followed a high-level meeting between Commerce Minister Khondokar Abdul Muktadir and representatives of edible oil refining companies, where industry leaders presented their case for upward price revision.

Explaining the rationale behind the decision, Commerce Secretary Khan noted that rising crude edible oil prices on the international market, coupled with elevated global freight charges and shipping costs, had placed severe financial pressure on domestic refiners. Importers and refining companies had originally requested a price hike of 10 Taka per litre. However, after evaluating market dynamics, the government capped the increase at 5 Taka per litre to balance business viability with consumer protection. The Secretary confirmed that domestic market supplies of edible oil remain stable, with no shortages reported.

The price hike arrives amidst broader economic pressures on households. Essential commodities such as sugar have recently seen price increases, while the Cabinet recently approved a new pay scale for public sector employees. Addressing concerns regarding potential inflationary impacts, the Commerce Secretary acknowledged that the price revision might exert mild upward pressure on overall inflation. He assured the public, however, that the government is actively implementing targeted measures to keep broader consumer inflation under control and prevent artificial supply shortages.