Bangladesh Textile Sector Grapples with Energy Crisis
Bangladesh's textile sector is struggling due to energy insecurity caused by a gas crisis. The industry, which employs four million people and produces 80% of Bangladesh's exports, relies heavily on gas for its wet processing operations.
The Middle East conflict has increased energy costs, and a recent fire at one of the country's two gas import terminals further reduced supply to half of demand. Industry leaders are now looking for alternative fuels.
Some factories have turned to compressed natural gas or diesel, but these options are more expensive. Others are considering electrification and biomass, which could provide energy security and reduce costs in the long run.