Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) reports that the new shipment will include 390,000 metric tonnes of diesel (gas oil) and 90,000 metric tonnes of jet fuel. The fuel will be supplied by Singapore-based company Unipec Singapore Pte Ltd. The total cost of the import is estimated at approximately Tk 7,672.66 crore.
According to the Energy and Mineral Resources Division, the Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) is purchasing this fuel oil through an international open tender. The Cabinet Committee on Government Purchase recently gave in-principle approval to the proposal.
Joint Secretary of the Energy and Mineral Resources Division, Monir Hossain Chowdhury, told BSS that considering the country's demand, the government usually imports diesel and jet fuel every six months. Based on the demand for June, July, and August, administrative clearance was given after approving the proposal sent by BPC. The supplier will now be issued a 'Notification of Award (NOA)', and the fuel supply will begin in the next phase.
BPC officials said that the new instability in the Middle East, especially the security risks surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, has created uncertainty in global fuel supply. In this situation, the decision has been taken to increase advance reserves to ensure the country's energy security.
BPC Manager (Commerce & Operations) Md. Mizanur Rahman said that after the approval of the international tender, the NOA has already been issued to the supplier. After the final contract is signed, the fuel oil will be brought to the country quickly.
He further said that the country currently has a fuel oil reserve of about 60 days. The government's target is to increase it to 90 days. To achieve this goal, fuel imports will continue at regular intervals.
Cost and Financing
According to BPC's proposal, the potential cost for importing a maximum of 390,000 tonnes of diesel and 90,000 tonnes of jet fuel is estimated at USD 622.528656 million. Based on the exchange rate of Tk 123.25 per dollar set by Sonali Bank on May 13, its value is approximately Tk 7,672.66 crore.
However, due to changes in international fuel oil prices and the dollar exchange rate, the final cost may be slightly lower or higher. The funds for this import will come from BPC's own funds and, if necessary, through loans or government assistance.
Impact of Global Instability
According to the Energy Division, the geopolitical crisis that started anew in the Middle East from March 2026 has created upward pressure on fuel oil prices in the global market. Due to increased security risks in the Strait of Hormuz, many ships are having to use alternative longer routes. As a result, transportation costs, war risk insurance premiums, and ship charter rates have increased significantly.
According to BPC's evaluation committee, the price obtained through the international competitive tender is reasonable and acceptable given the current global situation.
No Fear of Supply Crisis
The Energy Division said there is currently no shortage of fuel oil in the country. The existing reserve can meet the demand for at least 60 days. Moreover, despite the dollar crisis, priority is given to opening LCs for fuel imports, so there is no fear of any disruption in the supply system.
Joint Secretary of the Energy and Mineral Resources Division, Monir Hossain Chowdhury, said the country's fuel supply system is normal, and all necessary preparations are being taken to ensure no crisis arises in the future.
