Traders across Dhaka and other districts in Bangladesh are reporting shortages of bottled soybean oil as refiners reduce supply amid calls for further price increases. The tightening comes despite a recent government decision to raise the maximum retail price to Tk 204 per litre on September 3, a move intended to address rising international costs.

After a brief period of supply stabilization, availability of bottled soybean oil has declined, raising concerns about potential consumer impact. Market observers note that prices for loose soybean and palm oil have also edged higher in recent weeks, reflecting broader upward pressure.

The Bangladesh Vegetable Oil Refiners and Vanaspati Manufacturers Association has formally petitioned the government for another revision of the retail price ceiling. The association points to a substantial increase in international soybean oil prices, which have risen from approximately $1,200 to $1,325 per tonne over the past six months. According to refiners, these higher input costs have pushed the effective production cost of bottled soybean oil above Tk 230 per litre, well beyond the current retail limit.

Refiners warn that operating under the existing price ceiling risks ongoing losses and could discourage imports, further tightening supply in the domestic market. They emphasize the need for prompt government approval of price adjustments to ensure continuity of supply and avoid market disruptions in the coming months.

The government has yet to respond to the latest petition, leaving the future of bottled soybean oil availability uncertain amid fluctuating international commodity prices and domestic regulatory constraints.