Government sets minimum price for potatoes

In a significant move to support potato farmers facing financial losses, the government has fixed a minimum price of Tk 22 per kilogram for potatoes at the cold storage gate.

This step aims to stabilize the market and ensure fair returns for growers, who have been struggling as market prices continue to fall below production costs.

The decision, announced by the Ministry of Agriculture on Wednesday (August 27), comes after directives from the Chief Adviser led to the formation of a four-member review committee.

Headed by the Agriculture Secretary and comprising top officials from the ministries of Commerce, Food, and Finance, the committee was tasked with assessing the situation and recommending measures to protect farmer interests.

As part of the government’s immediate response, 50,000 tons of potatoes will be procured directly and stored in cold storage facilities. These will be released to the market during October and November to help regulate supply and price fluctuations.

Additionally, to encourage continued cultivation, the government has committed to providing targeted incentives to potato farmers in the upcoming season.