LPG operators assure minister of adequate stock, no shortage

LPG importers and operators have assured Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hasan Mahmud Tuku that Bangladesh holds sufficient liquefied petroleum gas stocks and faces no overall shortage, even though consumers in several areas have struggled to find 12kg cylinders, with some retailers charging well above the government-fixed price.

The issue was discussed at a meeting chaired by the minister at the ministry on Monday, where National Board of Revenue data showed that Bangladesh imported 157,760 tonnes of LPG in August and a further 118,742 tonnes between September 1 and 22. Consequently, the overall supply and stock position was described as satisfactory.

Nevertheless, a discrepancy persists at the retail level. The Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission set the September price of a 12kg cylinder at Tk 1,585, yet recent reports indicate that cylinders have been selling for between Tk 1,830 and Tk 2,100 in some areas, with certain outlets also reporting shortages.

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Tuku accordingly instructed operators to ensure uninterrupted supply and cautioned against hoarding or manufacturing an artificial shortage. He also directed the Energy and Mineral Resources Division to address the operators' business-related difficulties and pledged government support in removing obstacles to LPG imports.