Not everything rises or falls at once, finance adviser on inflation

Salehuddin Ahmed acknowledged the rising cost of essential commodities, particularly rice, while urging a balanced perspective on economic fluctuations and government policies

Staff Correspondent

Publisted at 12:55 PM, Sun Jan 26th, 2025

Finance Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed has acknowledged the strain of soaring rice prices on the public, stating that many essential goods are becoming unaffordable for consumers.

Speaking at an event organised by the National Board of Revenue (NBR) to mark Customs Day on Sunday (26 January), he remarked that while prices do not universally rise or fall in unison, the burden on ordinary people is evident.

"It feels as if the price of rice has hit Tk1,000 per kg," he said, highlighting the steep increase.

"We recognise that many essential items are slipping beyond people's purchasing power."

Addressing journalists at the event held at the NBR headquarters in Agargaon, Dhaka, he urged the media to take a more balanced approach in their reporting.

"You [journalists] must adopt a more positive perspective. At times, the discourse suggests as if Bangladesh itself does not exist—as if everything is failing. While onion and potato prices have declined, rice prices have surged."

Commenting on public criticism of the government’s economic policies, he likened governance to nurturing a child.

"If someone scores 70 out of 100, you can say they have done well, or you can question why they did not achieve 100. If we constantly take such an approach, no one will be motivated to work."

Acknowledging criticism over recent tax and VAT hikes, he remarked, "We do not always disclose the full context behind such decisions. Criticism is necessary, but encouragement should also be given for good work."

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