However, such temporary arrangements are likely to have a limited impact on the overall price situation. The solution lies in smoothening the operation of market forces through removing the factors hindering demand-supply equations. First, the procurement and supply that are heavily dependent on a small number of importers enjoying a complete sway over the whole process is responsible to a great extent for the erratic market behaviour. They have monopolized the supply business through forming cartels. The number of importers has to be increased and the TCB should play a hands-on role on the supply side. Secondly, the presence of too many middlemen in-between the growers and the retailers has traditionally been a major factor in the jacking of prices. In some instances, the consumers have to pay almost five times more than the prices at the growers' level. The supply chain has to function smoothly and efficiently to close the gap between the farmers and the retailers and there must also be effective market monitoring at various levels.

To strengthen the supply side we need to have more wholesale markets. We only have six in Dhaka city now for a population of more than 10 million, to say nothing of the other parts of the country.

Importantly, any further raise in the prices of fuel or electricity will push the production and transportation costs upwards thereby having an adverse impact on the already high price-line. This needs to be borne in mind by the decision makers.

We are heavily dependent on import for the supply of essentials, up to 60 to 70 percent of our demands, according to experts. A durable answer to price instability therefore lies in increasing local production and streamlining the distribution networks.