Govt hikes fuel prices

The government has increased fuel prices at the consumer level, citing a continued rise in global oil prices and the need to align domestic rates with international market trends.

According to a press release issued by the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources, the revised prices will come into effect from April 19.

Under the new structure, diesel will be sold at Tk 115 per litre, up from Tk 100, marking a Tk 15 increase. Kerosene has been raised to Tk 130 per litre from Tk 112, an increase of Tk 18. Octane saw the sharpest hike, climbing to Tk 140 per litre from Tk 120, while petrol has been set at Tk 135 per litre, up from Tk 116-reflecting increases of Tk 20 and Tk 19 respectively.

Officials said the adjustment was necessary to maintain consistency with global benchmarks, as international fuel markets remain volatile due to ongoing geopolitical tensions and supply disruptions, particularly in key energy corridors.

The move also reflects a broader policy shift by the government to gradually reduce subsidy dependence in the energy sector. Bangladesh has long relied on significant fiscal support to cushion domestic fuel prices, but rising import costs have increased pressure on public finances in recent months.

Energy sector insiders say the latest price revision is likely to have a ripple effect across the economy, particularly on transport costs, logistics, and overall inflation. Diesel, which is widely used in agriculture, transport, and power generation, plays a central role in determining cost structures across multiple sectors.

At the same time, officials maintain that the adjustment is essential to ensure uninterrupted fuel supply, especially as the country navigates supply chain disruptions and seeks alternative sourcing strategies amid global uncertainty.

The announcement was confirmed by Muhammad Arif Sadeq, Information and Public Relations Officer of the ministry.