I Do Not Expect Prices of All Goods to Fall Simultaneously: Economic Adviser

Staff Reporter

Economic Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed stated that the prices of all goods in the market do not rise or fall simultaneously in any country in the world.

He made these remarks on Sunday, January 26, at an event organized by the National Board of Revenue (NBR) in Agargaon, Dhaka, to celebrate Customs Day.

During the event, he expressed concern over the high price of rice and acknowledged the hardships faced by the public.

Salahuddin Ahmed said, “The price of rice has increased significantly. It feels like the price of rice has reached Tk 1,000. It is true that people are suffering. Many things are becoming unaffordable for them. We are aware of this issue.”

Addressing journalists, the economic adviser said, “Please look at things from a positive perspective. Not everything in Bangladesh is bad or good. The price of onions has decreased, the price of potatoes has decreased, but the price of rice has increased. We need to look at everything in a balanced way.”

Regarding criticism of the government’s work, he said, “The government is like a child. If it scores 70 out of 100, that should also be seen as good work. But if someone only questions why 100 was not achieved, it will discourage efforts. Good work should be encouraged, and constructive criticism should be given for bad work.”

On the issue of VAT increases, the adviser said, “I hear a lot of criticism. But the reasons behind VAT increases are not always explained. Therefore, it is important to praise good work alongside offering criticism.”

The event was attended by various high-ranking officials and guests.