The government has decided to import diesel from a new source, Kazakhstan, as fuel supply from traditional Middle Eastern suppliers faces disruption amid the US-Israel war on Iran.
The Cabinet Committee on Government Purchase (CCGP) today approved the import of 100,000 tonnes of diesel from Kazakhstan on an emergency basis at a price of $75.06 per barrel.
Earlier last week, the government also approved the import of another one lakh tonnes of diesel from ExxonMobil Kazakhstan Inc through direct procurement.
The energy ministry informed the committee that Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC)’s regular suppliers are struggling to deliver fuel within the stipulated timeframe, disrupting the country’s import schedule. The situation surrounding fuel procurement has become increasingly challenging.
Two major suppliers — Unipec Singapore Pte Ltd and Petco Trading Labuan Company — have already expressed their inability to supply fuel scheduled for April.
In this context, the ministry emphasised the need to diversify import sources to ensure energy security and maintain a stable fuel supply.
The disruption is largely linked to geopolitical tensions following the US-Israel attack on Iran February 2026, after which Iranian authorities imposed restrictions on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
According to an Unctad report, shipping in the Strait of Hormuz dropped by 95 percent.
This has significantly affected global fuel shipments. At the same time, volatility in fuel prices, premiums, and freight rates has intensified in the international market, the ministry informed the committee.
Several fuel-exporting countries have also curtailed supplies, further tightening the global market and complicating Bangladesh’s import efforts.
Meanwhile, disruptions in LNG exports from Qatar and Oman have pushed up gas prices in Europe, increasing demand for alternative liquid fuels and adding further pressure on global oil prices.
Amid the situation, many countries have resorted to rationing and demand-control measures. Bangladesh has also stepped up monitoring, introduced rationing in some areas, and launched awareness campaigns to reduce fuel consumption.
The purchase committee also approved the procurement of two LNG cargoes from Aramco Trading Singapore Pte Ltd.
Source: https://www.thedailystar.net/news/environment/natural-resources/energy/news/bangladesh-import-100000-tonnes-diesel-kazakhstan-4143361
