The government is planning to bring in 16 additional liquefied natural gas (LNG) cargoes in the coming weeks, while there is currently no shortage in gas supply in Bangladesh.
Sources said the country has adequate fuel reserves, with regular LNG imports continuing and efforts underway to diversify sourcing options to avoid any disruption in supply.
Engineer Md Rafiqul Islam, director (Operation & Mines) at Petrobangla and a board member, said that nine LNG cargoes are scheduled for April, of which four have already reached the country.
He added that import plans will continue into May, with 11 cargoes projected for the month. So far, seven shipments have been confirmed, while procurement of the remaining four is in progress.
Officials at Rupantarita Prakritik Gas Company Limited (RPGCL), a Petrobangla subsidiary, said the April shipments include cargoes from Australia, the United States, and Angola. Among the remaining consignments this month, two are expected from Australia, two from the US, and one from Angola.
For May, seven cargoes have already been secured - five from the spot market and two under long-term agreements.
With domestic gas output declining, the government has ramped up LNG imports and is providing subsidies to maintain uninterrupted supply and prevent any energy crisis.
Energy experts noted that increasing reliance on imported LNG, coupled with rising global prices, is putting pressure on the economy.
Dhaka University’s honorary professor Dr Badrul Imam said global instability is pushing up LNG prices, adding that relief may come if the international market stabilises.
He also suggested exploring additional sources such as Indonesia and Malaysia, citing their proximity and strong bilateral relations with Bangladesh, which could make imports more cost-effective and reliable.
