Dhaka, March 19 -- The government is getting more tactful to outwit dishonest businesses, engaged in profiteering, to ensure smooth supply of essential commodities, Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed said Tuesday regarding reported artificial market crisis.

Replying to a query over the short supply of edible oil on the market, he cited one instance of "dishonest" business practices. "Soybean oil is floating in feeder vessels at the outer anchorage of the port area. The issue has drawn our attention," he said.

The finance adviser said the ministry of commerce had been asked to look into the matter.

Mr Ahmed faced queries after having chaired two meetings of the Advisers' Council Committee on Economic Affairs and Government Purchase in ...