CPD: Basic food has become a luxury for the majority

The Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) reported that the rising costs of essentials have made them unaffordable for low and middle-income families in Bangladesh. Food inflation fluctuated from 9% in April 2023 to 13% in August 2023, before stabilizing at 10% in April 2024. Prices of staple foods like rice and lentils have significantly increased. CPD criticized the government's inadequate measures, noting a growing disparity between rich and poor, declining incomes for the poor, and insufficient investment. The think tank urged long-term reforms to stabilize the economy, prioritize vulnerable groups, curb inflation, and stabilize the exchange rate.