The government has decided to increase the supply of various types of fuel with immediate effect in response to a recent surge in demand and mounting pressure on the domestic fuel distribution system. The Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) has confirmed that allocations for diesel, octane and petrol have been revised in an effort to stabilise the market and ease consumer inconvenience.
According to official data, octane supply will be increased by 20 per cent, while diesel and petrol supplies will each be raised by around 10 per cent. Authorities noted that fuel demand has risen by nearly 30 per cent compared with normal levels in recent weeks, creating strain on the existing distribution framework and leading to intermittent pressure in several regions.
Industry sources indicate that diesel remains the dominant fuel in Bangladesh, accounting for approximately 63 per cent of total national consumption. In April alone, demand for diesel is estimated at around 400,000 tonnes. At present, available stock stands at roughly 102,000 tonnes. In addition, more than 100,000 tonnes of diesel are expected to arrive via four incoming shipments. A further strategic reserve of approximately 80,000 tonnes has also been set aside for emergency use. Under the revised arrangement, daily diesel distribution will rise from 11,107 tonnes to nearly 13,000 tonnes.
In the case of octane, although no acute shortage has been reported, rising demand has prompted precautionary adjustments. Current reserves stand at 29,484 tonnes, sufficient for roughly 25 days of consumption. Nevertheless, daily distribution has been increased from 1,129 tonnes to 1,366 tonnes to maintain market stability.
Petrol supply has also been adjusted in line with the broader policy shift. Existing stocks are estimated at 18,830 tonnes. Daily distribution, previously averaging 1,253 tonnes, has been increased by approximately 137 tonnes to meet growing consumption patterns.
Fuel Supply and Stock Overview
| Fuel Type | Current Stock | Previous Daily Sale | Revised Daily Sale | Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diesel | ~102,000 tonnes | 11,107 tonnes | ~13,000 tonnes | ~10% increase |
| Octane | 29,484 tonnes | 1,129 tonnes | 1,366 tonnes | 20% increase |
| Petrol | 18,830 tonnes | 1,253 tonnes | ~1,390 tonnes | ~10% increase |
Officials in the energy sector have stated that national fuel demand typically grows by 4 to 5 per cent annually. However, recent fluctuations have been driven by a combination of international market volatility, increased transport activity, and precautionary stockpiling by consumers and distributors. These factors have collectively contributed to an unusual spike in demand.
Representatives of the Bangladesh Petrol Pump Owners Association have welcomed the revised pricing and supply measures, suggesting that more realistic pricing mechanisms are helping to reduce speculative hoarding. They further expressed optimism that the enhanced supply structure would restore stability to the fuel market and provide relief to consumers across the country.