Minister Warns of Action as Business Owners Threaten LPG Halt
LPG business owners plan to stop sales across Bangladesh on October 15 and 16. Energy Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmud warned of legal action. He said this applies if the halt creates market instability. The minister spoke at a press conference today, Thursday. He had just met with LPG operators.
Minister Mahmud said disrupting supply to raise prices is wrong. He stated issues must be solved through discussions. A global energy crisis makes importing LPG difficult. The government tries to provide LPG at fair prices despite global market changes. He added that the war situation causes global energy instability. Private importers now seek other sources.
Officials discussed long-term plans with operators. These plans aim for stable supply and enough LPG for the next year. Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC) will help stabilize prices. Another meeting with relevant parties will happen on October 30.
The government wants to prevent fake shortages. The Directorate of National Consumer Rights Protection is active. District administrations are also helping. The government will keep the market normal.
Bangladesh has higher LPG prices than India. Minister Mahmud explained India’s government uses subsidies to lower LPG prices. Bangladesh does not have such subsidies. Private companies here sell LPG based on international rates.
Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir also spoke. He said the government is talking with business owners for stable supply. He stressed that strikes to force demands will not be allowed. BERC sets monthly LPG prices following international rates. Disputes like profits and commissions can be solved through talks. The government will not accept anyone misusing the market for personal gain.
Mohammad Selim Khan announced the two-day closure. He is president of the LPG Business Association Cooperative Society Limited. He spoke at a press conference last Monday. The association demands an end to business owner harassment. Mr. Khan said stronger actions might follow if demands are not met. Today’s government meeting discussed keeping LPG supply stable for now and the future.
