Govt plans digital supply system to stabilise markets: Commerce minister

Commerce, Industries, Textiles and Jute Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir has said the government is moving to modernise the supply system through a coordinated digital model aimed at stabilising markets and curbing manipulation.

“From import to retail, the entire supply chain will be brought under an integrated digital framework so that monitoring becomes easier and any irregularities can be detected quickly,” he said while inaugurating a government-run ‘Farmers’ Market’ in the Tilagarh area of Sylhet this morning.

The minister said the government would strengthen the activities of the Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB) to maintain balance in essential commodity markets.

“We will also increase imports through TCB to create an effective counterbalance,” he added.

Highlighting agricultural priorities, including irrigation and re-excavation of canals, the minister said improved infrastructure would help boost output and bring greater market stability.

The ‘Farmers’ Market’ has been launched jointly by the Sylhet district administration and the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) to connect farmers directly with consumers by eliminating intermediaries.

“Often, agricultural products change hands four to five times before reaching consumers, causing unjustified price hikes. This initiative will reduce those layers and create a win-win situation for both farmers and consumers,” the minister said.

Under the initiative, farmers will be able to sell fresh produce directly at designated locations on fixed days each week under administrative supervision.

“With proper oversight, there will be no scope for extortion or unexpected costs,” he added.

The inaugural event was chaired by Sylhet Deputy Commissioner Md Sarwoer Alam. Sylhet Divisional Commissioner Khan Md Reza-un-Nabi and DAE Sylhet Deputy Director Md Shamsuzzaman were also present.