Bangladesh's LNG Import Bill Set to Soar as Gas Shortage Persists

The ongoing gas shortage in Bangladesh has led to increased imports of liquefied natural gas (LNG), but experts warn that this will put a heavy financial strain on the government.

Bangladesh spent BDT 597.13 billion on LNG imports in the 2025-26 fiscal year, and if two more floating LNG terminals are built, the country's LNG import volumes and supply capacity will rise.

This could lead to annual LNG import costs exceeding BDT 1.2 trillion, according to energy experts and Petrobangla officials.

The Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA) estimates that Bangladesh's LNG import bill could reach $8.5 billion, or BDT 1.045 trillion at BDT 123 to the dollar, in FY 2029-30 if new gas discoveries remain limited and international LNG prices stay volatile.

Petrobangla is working on building LNG terminals and increasing domestic gas production to raise supply, but experts warn that relying on imports will deepen pressure on public finances unless Bangladesh also increases domestic gas production and renewable energy.