As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, food prices have fallen in most countries around the world—but in Bangladesh, the opposite often happens. During Ramadan, some unscrupulous traders hike up prices, putting low-income families under strain. Yet, there are exceptions. One such humanitarian trader is Shah Alam from Faridganj, who sells goods at zero profit in honor of the holy month.
Shah Alam, a shopkeeper from Char Kumira village in Faridganj Municipality, Chandpur, sells his products without profit, covering only the cost of purchase and transportation. His initiative has received widespread appreciation, with locals flocking to his Char Kumira Chaltala Super Market to buy Ramadan essentials in advance, happy with the affordable prices.
Customers are purchasing items such as puffed rice, chickpeas, dates, lentils, gram flour, soybean oil, and flattened rice, all sold at cost price. Shah Alam also displays a price list in his shop for transparency.
Sales representatives praise him as an honest and straightforward businessman. Locals note that he has followed this practice for the past three years, benefiting the community every Ramadan. Consequently, his shop sees heavy daily footfall.
Shah Alam explains that he takes this initiative out of concern for the poor, struggling, and hardworking people in the area.
Abdullah Al Imran, Assistant Director of the National Consumer Rights Protection Department in Chandpur, lauded Shah Alam’s initiative, calling it commendable for providing zero-profit goods to poor, destitute, and vulnerable families during Ramadan.
While some traders exploit Ramadan with price hikes caused by syndicates, Shah Alam’s example shows that selling at minimal or no profit can provide relief to middle- and low-income families. Consumers hope more traders will follow this model, helping the needy and setting a positive example during the holy month.
