The state-run Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB) has planned to purchase essential commodities worth around Tk 8,000 crore during the current fiscal year to maintain market stability amid global supply chain pressures.
The main products will include edible oil, lentils and sugar, along with dates and chickpeas. TCB initially plans to source about half of the commodities domestically and the rest from international markets, although overseas procurement could be increased if it proves more competitive and reliable.
Under its FY27 procurement plan, TCB aims to purchase 22 crore litres of edible oil, 2.20 lakh tonnes of red lentils, 1.10 lakh tonnes of sugar, 14,000 tonnes of chickpeas and 4,400 tonnes of dates.
The corporation is also strengthening its stock management by monitoring monthly demand, warehouse stocks and supplies in the pipeline. TCB currently operates 40 warehouses, with a combined storage capacity of around 48,370 tonnes. It plans to increase its storage capacity by another 10,000 tonnes to reduce dependence on rented facilities.
TCB Chairman Brigadier General Mohammad Foyshol Azad said the corporation is also working to reduce its reliance on government subsidies by purchasing commodities at competitive prices and selling some products at modest margins.
TCB currently supplies around 2.5 lakh tonnes of edible oil annually, accounting for nearly 15 percent of the overall market, while also supplying significant portions of household demand for lentils and sugar.
The corporation is expanding its product range beyond its traditional commodities. Soap, detergent and salt have already been introduced on a pilot basis, while flour, spices, chilli and turmeric are being considered for future distribution. These products are expected to be sold below regular market prices without government subsidies.
TCB has around 80 lakh smart cards endorsed, with nearly 75 lakh already distributed. The remaining beneficiaries are expected to receive their cards before the next Eid-ul-Fitr.
The corporation is also moving towards a more automated distribution system. Dealers currently scan smart cards using mobile phones, while POS machines are expected to be introduced to provide consumers with transaction receipts. A mobile-based system is also being developed to allow beneficiaries to access card information digitally and make payments through mobile financial services or cash.
TCB Chairman Foyshol Azad said the corporation’s long-term objective is to ensure the availability of quality essential commodities at affordable prices while responding directly to consumer demand.
