The government announced on August 2 that it has authorized green chili imports and will reduce existing import taxes to stabilize prices in Dhaka's markets.
Agriculture Minister Mohammad Amin Ur Rashid made the announcement after inspecting the Shantinagar kitchen market in the capital alongside Commerce Minister Khondaker Abdul Muktadir, Deputy Food Minister Md. Abdul Bari, and Dhaka South City Corporation Administrator Md. Abdus Salam.
The agriculture minister said imports would begin from the next day and expressed hope that green chili prices would fall to an affordable level within two to five days.
During the visit, the ministers spoke with buyers and sellers about supply, prices, and the overall situation of green chili and other essential commodities.
Commerce Minister Muktadir said the government will take all necessary steps to keep the market normal and urged media to report objectively to reduce confusion and prevent artificial crises or price manipulation.
He added that authorities are examining whether anyone is hoarding goods to destabilize the market, and warned of strict action against dishonest traders if such cases are found.
In Dhaka's markets, green chili was selling at 320-380 taka per kilogram, with prices having reached up to 400 taka two to three days earlier.
The market inspection followed a meeting at the Ministry of Commerce to review the situation of essential food and agricultural products and decide on necessary measures.