The shortage of bottled soybean oil has taken a severe turn across the capital and other parts of the country, causing significant hardship for consumers. For nearly a month and a half, the expected supply has been absent from the market, leaving many people struggling to meet their daily needs.
Market visits reveal that many retailers are simply saying โno stock available.โ Meanwhile, supermarkets are limiting sales, allowing customers to purchase only a fixed number of bottles. At the same time, the price of loose soybean oil has surged to around Tk 210 per kilogram, higher than pre-Eid levels.
Consumers complain that this price hike has put immense pressure on their daily expenses. The situation is particularly difficult for low-income people, many of whom are finding it increasingly hard to afford even basic cooking oil.
Questions are also being raised about the governmentโs role in addressing the crisis. According to relevant sources, a letter regarding the situation has been submitted to the Ministry of Commerce but is still under consideration. As a result, no effective measures are visibly in place, critics say.
Oil supply companies have blamed rising international prices and global instability for the situation. However, analysts argue that while global factors do play a role, effective policies and proper market monitoring are essential to tackle such challenges.
There are also allegations that prices have been increased at the dealer level while the printed price on bottles remains unchanged. This has created confusion and a lack of transparency in the market. In some cases, products are not being sold at the official rate, while in others, supply is being restrictedโraising concerns about artificial shortages.
According to government data, the price of loose soybean oil has increased by about 18 percent over the past year. However, as incomes have not risen at the same rate, consumersโ purchasing power has declined.
A similar situation has been observed in various areas of the capital, including Mugda, Maniknagar, Khilgaon, and Motijheel. Analysts believe this is not just a localized issue but could reflect a nationwide crisis.
Under the current situation, low-income households are being forced to rely on loose oil, but even that option has become expensive. As a result, many families are having to reassess and cut down their monthly expenses.
Experts warn that without ensuring steady supply, controlling stockpiling, and strengthening market oversight, the crisis may worsen further. They have called for urgent and effective measures to protect consumer interests.
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