50,000 tonnes of rice coming from India, decision to import more atap rice: Finance Advisor

The government has decided to import 50,000 metric tonnes of rice from India to keep the rice market stable. In addition, initiatives are being taken to import additional atap rice as the demand for atap rice in the country has increased, said Finance Advisor to the interim government Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed.

He told reporters after the meeting of the Cabinet Division's Government Procurement Advisory Council Committee at the Secretariat on Tuesday (December 23) evening. The Finance Advisor said that although the price of rice in the international market is on the rise, Bangladesh is able to procure rice at a relatively comfortable price.

Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed said, "The price of rice is increasing in the world market. One of the reasons for this is China's large-scale rice imports. They are mainly buying rice from Vietnam, which is having an impact on the market. However, even so, the price of the 50,000 tonnes of rice we are bringing this time is slightly lower than last time. This is a matter of relief for us."

Along with rice import, the Finance Advisor said that there has been positive progress in fertilizer import. He said that 90 thousand metric tons of TSP fertilizer is being brought from Morocco and another 40 thousand metric tons of fertilizer will be imported soon. He commented that the price of fertilizer is also favorable for the government.

Decisions were also taken about other development activities in the meeting, said Dr. Salehuddin. He said that approval has been given for the construction of a building at Khulna University of Engineering and Technology (KUET) at a cost of Tk 105 crore. In addition, decisions have been taken about four road projects under the local government department.

Regarding the power sector, the Finance Advisor said that it has been decided to distribute 19 power substations in the Mymensingh region. In addition, the government is making advance preparations in view of the upcoming Ramadan and said that 10 thousand metric tons of lentils will be imported. At the same time, there is a plan to import rice bran oil to ensure adequate supply in the market.

Regarding international diplomatic establishments, he said that it has been decided to construct a building for the Bangladesh Embassy in Canberra, Australia. The Australian government has set a specific deadline, he said, adding that there is a risk of withdrawal of permission if the work is not completed within the stipulated time.

Overall, the concerned parties expressed hope that these government initiatives to ensure the supply of rice, fertilizer and daily necessities will bring stability to the market.