Dhaka, April 12 -- Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir has urged consumers not to panic, insisting there is an "adequate" supply of edible oil in the market.

Speaking to reporters after a meeting with edible oil suppliers at the commerce ministry on Sunday, the minister called on consumers to avoid unnecessary bulk buying.

"My request to everyone through you is, please do not rush into buying excessively out of panic. There is sufficient supply in the market," he said.

"When a product is available, there is no need for competition. If people compete to buy more, dishonest traders may take advantage. So why create unnecessary panic and give them that opportunity?"

The minister acknowledged reports on shortages of specific brands...