The government has announced the commencement of procurement of 1.8 million metric tonnes of paddy and rice, along with 50,000 metric tonnes of wheat for the current Boro season. The purchase programme will begin on 3 May, with specified procurement prices set for different commodities.
Under the announced rates, Boro paddy will be purchased at Tk 36 per kilogram, parboiled rice at Tk 49 per kilogram, and Atap rice at Tk 48 per kilogram. Wheat will also be procured at Tk 36 per kilogram.
The details were disclosed at a press briefing held on Wednesday (22 April) following a meeting of the Food Planning and Monitoring Committee (FPMC).
According to the committee’s chair, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed, the procurement of paddy and wheat will begin on 3 May and continue until 31 August. Rice procurement will start slightly later, on 15 May, and will also continue until 31 August. He further stated that if necessary, the procurement period may be extended beyond 31 August following a formal review meeting.
The Home Minister also provided an update on national food demand and production. He said that the country’s annual demand for rice stands at 42.4 million metric tonnes, while current production levels are close to this requirement. As a result, there is no anticipated supply shortage. He further noted that favourable weather conditions this season have reduced the risk of natural disruptions, and production is expected to meet or even exceed targets.
The government maintains a strategic food reserve as part of its national food security framework, and procurement activities are conducted to ensure adequate stock levels throughout the year.
Procurement Overview
| Commodity | Procurement Price (per kg) | Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boro paddy | Tk 36 | 3 May | 31 August |
| Parboiled rice | Tk 49 | 15 May | 31 August |
| Atap rice | Tk 48 | 15 May | 31 August |
| Wheat | Tk 36 | 3 May | 31 August |
The structured procurement programme is intended to support food stock management, ensure fair market intervention, and maintain stability in the country’s grain supply chain during the current agricultural season.