Petrobangla denies industrial gas shortage claims

Petrobangla has dismissed recent claims by industry representatives about a severe gas crisis affecting industrial operations, calling the statements “misleading and confusing.”

The state-owned oil and gas corporation issued the clarification following reports from textile and garment industry owners warning that many mills face shutdowns due to insufficient gas supply.

Contrary to these claims, Petrobangla said the data shows a steady increase in gas delivery to industries. From January to April this year, the average daily gas supply to the industrial sector was 997 million cubic feet (mmcfd), up 21% from 823 mmcfd in the same period last year.

In April alone, supply reached 1,088 mmcfd, a nearly 50% year-on-year increase.

To meet rising demand, Petrobangla arranged for six additional LNG cargo imports this year. The import cost is about Tk 65 per cubic metre, while industrial users pay Tk 30, and captive power producers Tk 31.50 per cubic metre. The government subsidizes Tk 35 per cubic metre.

Starting Wednesday, Petrobangla plans to boost supply by another 150 mmcfd through sector-wise distribution adjustments and additional LNG imports.

“The government is taking all necessary steps to ensure sufficient gas supply to industries,” Petrobangla said, hoping this clears up any confusion.