LPG Supply Restored Nationwide After Traders End Strike

LPG supply and sales resumed nationwide on Thursday after traders withdrew their strike following a meeting with the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC).

The decision was taken after discussions at the BERC office, where traders agreed to call off the shutdown, easing consumer concerns amid an ongoing gas shortage.

Selim Khan, president of the Gas Traders’ Cooperative Association, said the strike was withdrawn after assurances that enforcement drives by the Directorate of National Consumer Rights Protection against LPG outlets would be halted. Traders also reiterated their demand to fix the retail price of a 12kg LPG cylinder at Tk1,500.

In response to volatility in the LPG market and supply constraints, authorities have moved to reassess VAT and tax structures at both import and local production stages. Steps are also underway to simplify bank lending and expedite the opening of letters of credit for LPG imports.

On Thursday, the Energy and Mineral Resources Division wrote to the National Board of Revenue, urging a review of the tax framework by considering LPG as a “green fuel.” The division also requested Bangladesh Bank to instruct commercial banks to prioritise loan approvals and LC processing for LPG imports.

The traders’ body had announced a nationwide suspension of LPG cylinder supply and sales on Wednesday night, protesting raids and fines imposed during enforcement operations. They had also planned to halt LPG lifting from all company plants from Thursday.

However, following talks with the regulator, the strike was withdrawn and normal LPG supply was restored across the country.