Bangladesh Faces No Market Panic: Commerce Minister

Bangladesh’s Commerce Minister, Khandakar Abdul Muktadir, has reassured citizens that there is no cause for alarm regarding market stability, despite recent price fluctuations ahead of Ramadan. Speaking to journalists at the Secretariat on Wednesday, 18 January, he emphasised that the nation’s export framework remains highly concentrated, with nearly 85 per cent of total exports dependent on a single product.

“To move beyond this vulnerability, we must diversify our export portfolio, introduce new products, and expand into new markets,” the minister said. “At the same time, private sector investors will continue to receive full government support to encourage investment.”

Supply and Market Stability During Ramadan

Addressing concerns about essential commodities during the holy month, the minister clarified that market stability relies on adequate supply. The government currently holds sufficient stock of daily necessities, and additional supplies are secured in the pipeline. “There is no reason to panic,” he said, adding that minor price increases observed at the beginning of Ramadan largely reflect temporary spikes in demand, as households tend to stock up at the start of the month. He reassured that such effects on retail markets are short-lived.

Investment and Economic Outlook

Minister Muktadir also highlighted the critical role of a stable environment for both foreign and domestic investment. “No investor commits capital amid uncertainty. A stable and predictable environment is the first and foremost condition for investment,” he noted.

He drew attention to the country’s sizeable working-age population, with around 2 to 2.2 million new entrants into the labour market each year. “The investment slowdown over the past two to three years has put significant pressure on our economy. Without prompt recovery, both employment and economic growth face serious risks,” he warned.

When asked whether the coinciding start of Ramadan presents a challenge for the new government, he acknowledged the month as a “critical test” for public service delivery. “The government must meet citizens’ expectations—success is the only option,” he added.

The discussion was attended by State Minister for Commerce Md Shariful Alam and Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman. Afterwards, Minister Muktadir held consultations with senior officials and department heads to review preparedness and market monitoring strategies.