Textiles and Jute Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir has said that the recent increase in fuel prices has not caused inflation at the level widely perceived.
Speaking at the inauguration of “Multidimensional Jute Products Fair–2026” at Zia Hall in Narayanganj on Saturday, he explained that a truck traveling 200 kilometers consumes about 30 liters of diesel. The price hike adds roughly Tk 450 in extra cost per trip, which translates to only 40–45 paisa per kilogram when transporting 10,000 kg of goods. “This increase is too small to justify significant price hikes in commodities,” he said.
The minister urged stakeholders to rely on verified data rather than speculation when assessing market prices. “Claims that product prices have surged due to higher diesel costs should be carefully examined,” he added.
Addressing export performance, Muktadir noted that the slowdown began after the Russia–Ukraine war and has been further affected by recent tensions in the Middle East. He said the government is working to attract investment in less energy-dependent industries and expand LNG import capacity to ensure adequate gas supply.
Highlighting the jute sector, he emphasized boosting exports of diversified jute products instead of raw jute to increase earnings and create jobs. He also mentioned efforts to achieve self-sufficiency in jute seed production and directives to expand the use of jute goods in public offices to reduce polythene use.
