Bangladesh Seeks Private Investment in Energy Sector

The government of Bangladesh is seeking private investment in gas, coal, and petroleum infrastructure to meet growing energy demand. Power, Energy, and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hasan Mahmood said that private investment is 'very much needed' in the energy sector.

As part of this effort, the government plans to allow qualified private companies to import and sell fuel oil alongside state-owned distributors. This will introduce competition into the market, allowing consumers to choose between state-owned and private providers.

The minister cited India as an example where state-owned and private companies operate alongside each other in fuel distribution. He also mentioned that the government's plan was partly prompted by the experience of the recent Middle East conflict, which led to fears of fuel shortages despite sufficient stocks.