Bangladesh has sufficient and fully secured stocks of fuel oil to meet demand for April and May, according to the State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources, Anindya Islam Amit. He stated that the government is working continuously to ensure uninterrupted energy supply while also strengthening long-term preparedness in line with projected national demand.
The minister made the remarks while speaking to journalists after inspecting the Eastern Refinery Limited (ERL) in Chattogram on Friday. During the visit, he reviewed the country’s current refining capacity, fuel storage levels, and ongoing initiatives aimed at reinforcing energy security and supply stability.
He confirmed that, based on present estimates, the country holds adequate reserves to fully meet demand for April and May without disruption. In addition, preparations are underway to build supplementary stocks in anticipation of possible requirements in June. He further claimed that the current level of fuel reserves is the highest in the nation’s history, reflecting a strengthened supply chain and improved procurement planning.
Emphasising policy direction, the minister said the government is not only focused on maintaining adequate stockpiles but is also working to make the fuel supply system more stable, diversified, and resilient. To that end, initiatives have been taken to expand imports of both crude and refined petroleum from alternative international sources. This strategy, he noted, will reduce dependence on a limited number of suppliers and help cushion the domestic market from global price volatility.
Special attention is also being given to enhancing the operational capacity of the Eastern Refinery Limited, the country’s primary crude oil processing facility. Efforts are underway to ensure uninterrupted crude supply and improve overall refining efficiency. Plans include importing crude oil from multiple countries, including Malaysia, as part of a broader effort to strengthen long-term energy security.
Officials indicate that current energy sector planning is being guided by three key priorities: increasing fuel reserves, diversifying supply sources, and upgrading refining infrastructure. According to the minister, coordinated progress across these areas will significantly reduce the risk of future energy shortages and improve overall system resilience.
A summary of the current fuel situation and ongoing plans is presented below:
| Aspect | Current Status |
|---|---|
| Fuel stock for April–May | Fully sufficient to meet demand |
| Preparations for June | Additional stock accumulation underway |
| Import strategy | Expansion of alternative supply sources |
| Refining capacity | Eastern Refinery Limited under development and review |
| Long-term objective | Stable, diversified and resilient energy system |
The minister reiterated that the government’s ultimate goal is to establish a sustainable energy framework capable of withstanding fluctuations in the global market without disrupting domes