Finance Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed has expressed frustration over the persistently high prices of essential goods despite significant reductions in import duties on key items.

Speaking at an event held by the Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF) to celebrate its 34th anniversary yesterday, Ahmed acknowledged that the National Board of Revenue (NBR) had slashed import duties on essentials like rice, onions, edible oil, potatoes, sugar, and eggs over the past three months since the interim government took office.

However, these measures have yet to translate into lower prices for consumers.

Ahmed highlighted the public’s growing discontent over rising prices, sharing that he frequently hears criticism for the continued high cost of items like eggs and onions despite efforts to reduce import costs. He emphasized that stabilizing market prices is not solely the responsibility of the commerce ministry, noting the complexity of factors contributing to price stability.

“People have a right to feel frustrated when Tk 500 no longer buys enough in kitchen markets,” he said, acknowledging the government’s challenges in addressing these issues.

The finance adviser also addressed recent criticism of the decision to export 3,000 tonnes of hilsa to India ahead of Durga Puja, explaining that the amount represented less than 0.5 percent of Bangladesh’s total fish production and did not significantly impact local supply.