Bangladesh is intensifying diplomatic efforts to resolve a delay in the delivery of a large crude oil shipment currently stranded in the Strait of Hormuz, while simultaneously arranging alternative supplies to stabilise the country’s energy situation.
Officials said a consignment of 1 lakh metric tonnes of crude oil, carried by the vessel MT Nordic Pollux, remains unable to depart despite being stationed at Saudi Arabia’s Ras Tanura Port.
The delay is due to pending clearance from Iran, which controls passage through the key maritime route. Although Tehran recently approved transit for several Bangladeshi ships, this particular vessel was not among those granted permission.
In response, the government has moved swiftly to secure an additional 1 lakh metric tonnes of crude oil from Saudi Arabia. Unlike the stranded shipment, this new consignment will be routed through the Red Sea, bypassing the Hormuz chokepoint, and delivered directly to the Eastern Refinery in Chattogram.
According to the Bangladesh Shipping Corporation, the arrival of the new shipment within the coming weeks is expected to ease pressure on fuel supplies.
Managing Director of the corporation Mahmudul Malek said diplomatic communication is ongoing to secure clearance for the delayed vessel. Once approval is granted, it will proceed to Bangladesh without further delay.
Meanwhile, authorities confirmed that the additional crude oil will be loaded from Yanbu Commercial Port, with shipments expected to reach Chattogram between 20 April and early May, ensuring a combined supply of 2 lakh metric tonnes across two vessels.
