Bangladesh to purchase rice, edible oil and lentils to stabilize prices ahead of Ramadan

Bangladesh’s interim government has approved a series of procurement measures aimed at strengthening food security and stabilising domestic prices ahead of the holy month of Ramadan. The decisions include the purchase of rice, edible oil and lentils to meet rising seasonal demand and ensure uninterrupted supply of essential commodities.

The approvals were granted at the 51st meeting of the Advisers Council Committee on Government Purchase, chaired by Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed. As part of the plan, the Ministry of Food will procure a total of 100,000 metric tons of rice. Of this volume, 50,000 metric tons of non-basmati parboiled rice will be imported from India through an international open tender, while another 50,000 metric tons of white rice will be sourced from Pakistan under a government-to-government agreement.

Officials said the rice imports will help maintain adequate public stocks and reduce market volatility during Ramadan, a period marked by significantly higher consumption. The Directorate General of Food will oversee the procurement process and ensure timely delivery of consignments to strengthen buffer reserves.

In addition, the government has approved the procurement of 47.5 million litres of edible oil, including soybean oil and refined rice bran oil, to prevent price spikes during the festive season. Under the plan, 10 million litres of refined rice bran oil will be purchased locally, while 37.5 million litres of soybean oil will be sourced from international markets through direct purchase methods.

The Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB) is expected to play a key role in distributing the edible oil through subsidised sales nationwide. Meanwhile, the government has also approved the purchase of 10,000 metric tons of lentils through a national open tender. Authorities said this measure will help ensure sufficient supply, keep prices affordable and support low- and middle-income consumers during Ramadan.

Tags: rice, edible oils, lentil, Bangladesh