Bangladesh now has highest-ever fuel stock: State Minister

State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Aninda Islam Amit on Friday said Bangladesh currently holds its highest-ever fuel reserves, ensuring sufficient supply to meet demand in the coming months.

Speaking during a visit to Eastern Refinery Limited, the state minister for power, energy and mineral resources said the existing stock is adequate for April and May, while preparations are underway to maintain uninterrupted supply in June.

According to ministry data, the country’s reserves include 113,085 tonnes of diesel, 31,821 tonnes of octane, 18,021 tonnes of petrol and 77,546 tonnes of furnace oil.

Fuel imports are also continuing to strengthen supply. Recently, 5,000 tonnes of diesel reached the Parbatipur Padma Oil depot from India through the Bangladesh-India Friendship Pipeline, following an earlier delivery of 8,000 tonnes on April 14. Another 7,000 tonnes is expected within the next few days.

The state minister said the government is exploring alternative sources to import both refined and crude fuel to ensure stability in supply.

He also highlighted plans to install a second unit at Eastern Refinery to expand its capacity and enhance the country’s energy security. The new unit is expected to become operational by 2029.

Due to a temporary halt in refining operations at the refinery, Bangladesh has increased its reliance on imported refined fuel.

However, once the second unit is operational, it will significantly boost domestic refining capacity and allow for greater diversification of fuel sources.

Amit noted that most fuel shipments arrived earlier in January and February, while some disruptions occurred in March and April. Efforts are now focused on ensuring adequate supply in June to meet rising demand across sectors.

He added that initiatives are underway to import refined fuel alongside plans to source crude oil from alternative suppliers, including Malaysia, for local processing.

On energy management, the state minister said priority is currently being given to agriculture and industry, meaning limited load shedding may affect households.

However, he assured that household consumers will regain priority after the harvest season begins in May.

Senior officials, including Energy Secretary Saiful Islam, Petrobangla Chairman Ehsanul Haque, and other officials, were present during the visit.