BCIC urges DCs to curb urea fertilizer  smuggling, black marketing

 
The Bangladesh Chemical Industries Corporation (BCIC) has written to all deputy commissioners (DCs) across the country, urging them to take necessary measures to prevent illegal stockpiling, black marketing, sales of urea fertiliser above government-fixed prices and smuggling across the border.

The corporation has called for stronger monitoring of fertiliser stocks, supply and sales, along with regular mobile court operations, to ensure that farmers receive fertiliser on time at government-fixed prices, says a press release. 

In a letter signed by BCIC Chairman Md Babul Mia, the corporation said it had been continuously producing urea fertiliser and supplying it to different parts of the country through the prescribed distribution system to meet farmers’ demand.

However, information received from various sources has indicated that BCIC-produced urea fertiliser is being illegally stockpiled in some areas, sold at prices higher than those fixed by the government, and potentially smuggled into neighbouring countries through border areas, the letter said.

Such activities could disrupt the availability of fertiliser at the farmers’ level, while also leading to the misuse of public funds and the wastage of national resources, it added.
Against this backdrop, the BCIC has particularly urged deputy commissioners to intensify monitoring of fertiliser stocks, supply and sales across their respective districts, especially in border areas and other vulnerable locations.

The corporation has also called for regular mobile court operations in coordination with upazila administrations, law enforcement agencies and other relevant authorities to prevent illegal stockpiling, black marketing and attempts to smuggle fertiliser across the border.

The letter further stated that appropriate action must be taken in accordance with existing laws and regulations whenever any irregularities or illegal activities are detected.
The BCIC expressed hope that coordinated efforts by district administrations and other relevant agencies, coupled with effective monitoring, would help prevent illegal stockpiling, black marketing and smuggling of fertiliser.