Bangladesh State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Anindya Islam Amit has said the country has sufficient fuel reserves to meet demand through April and May, with steps under way to secure supply for June.
He made the remarks during a visit to Eastern Refinery Limited in Chattogram. He said Bangladesh is currently holding its highest-ever fuel stock and is exploring alternative sources to import both refined and crude fuel to maintain stability in supply.
Anindya Islam Amit said the temporary shutdown of refining operations at Eastern Refinery has increased reliance on imported refined fuel. He added that the second unit of the refinery is expected to become operational in 2029.
He said most fuel imports arrived in January and February, while some disruptions were recorded in March and April. Despite this, he said reserves remain adequate for the current month and the next.
The state minister added that preparations are ongoing to ensure sufficient supply in June to meet rising demand and that the government is working to maintain uninterrupted energy provision across all sectors. He also said initiatives are under way to increase imports of refined fuel oil, alongside plans to source crude oil from alternative suppliers, including Malaysia, for processing at the refinery.
Anindya Islam Amit said power management is being prioritised for agriculture and industry amid the current energy situation. He acknowledged that limited load shedding may occur but said these sectors are being given priority over households. He added that household consumers would regain priority once the harvest season begins in May.
Energy Secretary Saiful Islam, Petrobangla Chairman Ehsanul Haque, Joint Secretary Amir Hossain Chowdhury and Eastern Refinery Managing Director Sharif Hasnat were among officials present during the visit.
