The government of Bangladesh has planned to import 11 shipments, known as "cargoes", of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) throughout the month of July. This step aims to ensure that the country has a steady supply of gas to meet its growing energy needs.
These 11 shipments will carry a total of about 35.2 million units of gas. The first of these deliveries is expected to reach the country by 6 or 7 July.
Petrobangla, the national energy company, explained how they are getting these supplies. One shipment is coming through a long-term deal, three are from short-term contracts, and seven have been bought from the “spot market", which is an international market where gas can be bought for immediate delivery.
Mohammad Rafiqul Islam, Director of Operations and Mines at Petrobangla, confirmed that importing these 11 shipments is key to keeping the gas network running smoothly. On average, each ship carries about 3.2 million units of gas.
This is an increase from last month. In June, the government imported nine shipments of LNG, totalling 28.8 million units.
These gas supplies come from a few different partners. Qatar Energy and OQ Trading from Oman supply gas through long-term agreements. Additionally, OQ Trading (based in the UAE) provides gas through short-term contracts. The government also buys gas from the spot market as needed each month, once it receives official approval.
By using these different sources, the government aims to keep the country’s energy supply reliable and ready to meet the demands of homes and businesses.