Dhaka, Bangladesh — The Consumers Association of Bangladesh (CAB) has called on the government to take urgent action to curb rising prices of essential commodities — sugar, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and edible oils — which are inflicting financial pressure on households across the country. In a statement issued on January 3, CAB described the recent price hikes as abnormal and persistent, saying they have caused growing frustration and anxiety among ordinary consumers. It alleged that powerful groups and syndicates are artificially manipulating markets — particularly in sugar — by creating shortages at the import, mill and distribution levels. According to the association, retail sugar prices have surged by around Tk 10 per kilogram, while soybean and palm oil prices have climbed Tk 5–10 per litre in recent weeks. CAB pointed out that these increases are putting significant strain on household budgets, especially as the country prepares for Ramadan.
The consumer body also raised concerns about LPG price rises, calling them unjustified, and accused some traders of charging above government-fixed rates. CAB criticized the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC) for setting prices without ensuring effective enforcement, allowing retailers and distributors to ignore official rates. To address these challenges, CAB has submitted a seven-point demand to the government, including verifying sugar production and stocks, cracking down on syndicates and hoarders, ensuring edible oil prices reflect international trends, and strengthening market monitoring at local levels. The association warned that without immediate and coordinated action, consumer purchasing power and confidence in the market could continue to deteriorate.
