Bangladesh has two months’ petrol, octane stocks: Energy Ministry

Bangladesh has sufficient reserves of petrol and octane to meet demand for the next two months, the Energy Ministry said on Thursday (April 9).

Speaking at a press briefing at the Secretariat, Joint Secretary Monir Hossain Chowdhury said the country currently holds 1,43,143 tonnes of diesel, 9,569 tonnes of octane, and 16,812 tonnes of petrol.

He noted that diesel is being sold at Tk 100 per litre, while the adjusted market price stands at Tk 155, meaning the government is providing a subsidy of Tk 55 per litre. This subsidy amounts to roughly Tk 2,500–3,000 crore per month. Fuel prices may be revised depending on improvements in the ongoing global situation, he added.

On supply, Chowdhury said one crude oil tanker is awaiting passage through the Strait of Hormuz, while another is scheduled to depart on April 18. Discussions are also underway for a third shipment.

He further said that 4,69,042 litres of fuel have been recovered in nationwide drives against illegal stockpiling.

Highlighting long-term energy security, the official said the government is considering increasing reserves to cover at least three months of demand.