Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter said that though the government has made sincere efforts to dismantle syndicates, the unholy alliance continues to manipulate the prices of essential commodities in the market.
Farida Akhter made this statement while inaugurating the first-ever Indigenous Food and Crops Fair at the Banophool Adibashi Green Heart College premises on Friday.
“Syndicates are still operating in the markets, causing the prices of essentials to rise,” she said during the inauguration of the two-day fair.
"These syndicates not only control the market but also deprive growers of fair prices for their produce, forcing consumers to pay more," she explained.
The adviser further highlighted that the active role of middlemen has created a significant price gap between producers and consumers.
Nagorik Uddyog and Maha Progha Education Trust organized the fair jointly, showcasing various types of indigenous food crops and vegetables grown organically without pesticides or chemical fertilizers.
The aim of the event is to popularize these items among the general public.
Highlighting the government’s efforts to stabilize the commodity market, the adviser pointed out that production declined following the devastating floods in August and September, which led to market instability.
However, the government’s swift actions helped regain control over the market.
Nevertheless, syndicates remain active across the country, she added, urging media support to combat these groups.
Farida Akhter emphasized the importance of preserving traditional organic foods produced in hilly areas.
She said that indigenous people are producing these healthy foods while maintaining agroecology and respecting nature.
She also mentioned that large-scale marketing of indigenous foods and crops could significantly contribute to the country’s economic development.
The adviser reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring the supply of safe food and preventing the use of antibiotics in fish, poultry and egg production.
The fair is open to visitors from 10am to 9pm.
