The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, Dhaka

Leaders of various retail markets in the city have blamed the big importers for the spiraling prices of essentials.

They came up with the allegation at a discussion meeting at the Federation of Chambers Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) conference room Monday with its president Annisul Huq in the chair.

The FBCCI organized programme as part of a series of discussions ahead of holy Ramadan.

Mohammad Jamal Miah of New Super Market (Block D) alleged that the bulk importers/refiners involved in re-packing are behind the shooting up edible oil prices.

He said: "When the price (of edible oil) in the international market goes up, these people make it effective at once, but when there is any significant fall in price they don't bother to reduce the price even after more than 20 days."

Abul Taher of New Super Market accused ACI, Pran, Fresh and other big companies for the volatile price situation of essential items, including edible oil, fine rice (pilao), sugar and flour.

Imam Hossain Khan of Shantinagar Businessmen's Association lamented that like the general consumers, they are also hostage to big importers and business houses Haji M Mohsin Uddin of Shyambazar Agri-products Merchants Association was highly critical of the "excessive greed of some businessmen" and said it is none but almighty Allah only who can change their evil nature.

FBCCI senior vice president Abul Kashem urged the businessmen not to make irrational profit at least during the holy month of Ramadan.

"You are the major beneficiary of the changing scenario after January 11, please give up your attitude of windfall profit," he said.

FBCCI president Annisul Huq said they would sit with the importers and other businessmen within a week for discussion.

"As we (FBCCI) have no authority to compel the businessmen to make less profit, we can just motivate them through discussions," he said in reply to a question.