Import of another 124,000 tonnes of rice given go-ahead

The Bangladesh government has allowed private traders to import an additional 124,000 tonnes of parboiled and sunned rice, following an earlier approval for 83,000 tonnes last month. The move aims to address rising rice prices, particularly for coarse varieties consumed by low-income groups. The importers have been given a deadline of May 15 to market the entire quantity. The government has also cut customs tariffs to encourage more rice imports and ensure food security amid domestic production growth of 2.49% in the last fiscal year.