To ensure stable supply, soybean oil prices were raised by Tk8 per litre on 9 December.
A week later, on 16 December, the government waived Value Added Tax (VAT) on soybean oil imports, production, and trade.
Yet, retailers report inconsistent supply, leaving ordinary citizens at the mercy of fluctuating availability and allegations of overpricing.
A survey of Dhaka’s major markets, including Karwan Bazar, revealed mixed scenarios.
While some retailers claimed no disruption in supply, others either lacked stock entirely or sold at inflated rates.
Retailers at Karwan Bazar, such as Ma’er Doa General Store and Messrs Bandhu Store, reported receiving adequate supplies.
A buyer, Abdur Rahman, corroborated their claims, stating he had no difficulty purchasing two litres of soybean oil.
However, in Mirpur, Banglamotor, and Nawabpur areas, retailers painted a different picture.
Many complained about reduced visits by sales representatives (SRs) of oil companies, resulting in limited order fulfilment.
Consequently, these retailers were forced to procure oil from wholesale markets at higher prices.
Ripon Mia, the proprietor of Ripon Store in Bangla Motor, said, “Previously, SRs visited weekly, often urging us to place orders. Now, it’s the opposite—we have to chase them, and they still don’t fulfil our demands.”
Similar frustrations were voiced by Mofazzal Hossain of Mohsin Store, who claimed SRs were now a rare sight.
A retailer in Shewrapara, Mirpur, speaking anonymously, stated, “The company staff are not showing up to take orders, making it difficult to secure oil. If we get the oil, we sell it.”
For consumers, the situation is increasingly burdensome. Rajib Bepari, a recent Master’s graduate working at a private firm, frequently buys 1- or 2-litre bottles for his shared accommodation.
He expressed his frustration: “I visited three stores and still couldn’t find a 1-litre bottle. This has happened repeatedly. If the government fails to regulate traders or dismantle syndicates, how are they different from the previous administration? They must act swiftly.”
Consumers Association of Bangladesh (CAB) Vice President SM Nazer Hossain, criticised the government’s response, stating, “The government raised prices by Tk8 per litre to satisfy traders. In return, consistent supply should have been ensured. However, the market tells a different story, with the government adopting a passive stance.”
Hossain warned that traders might intentionally exacerbate the crisis, adding, “While authorities have claimed supply chain issues, they’ve had ample time to address them. Delays raise serious concerns.”
He urged the government to prioritise monitoring and stabilising supply chains.
Following the price adjustment on 9 December, bottled soybean oil now costs Tk175 per litre, while loose soybean oil is priced at Tk157 per litre.
Loose palm oil also rose from Tk149 to Tk157 per litre.
A 5-litre bottle of soybean oil now costs Tk860.
As the crisis continues, consumers and retailers alike are calling for immediate and effective government intervention to alleviate their difficulties.
