Gas Supply Reverts to Pre-Crisis Levels in Bangladesh

The gas supply in Bangladesh has improved significantly since Monday night, returning to levels seen before an LNG-terminal disruption. Petrobangla data shows that total gas supply stood at 2,610mmcf on Tuesday, with 1,620mmcf coming from domestic gas fields and 990mmcf from imported regasified liquefied natural gas (RLNG).

BKMEA Executive President Fazlee Shamim Ehsan said that some recharge has been done as predicted, which has improved the nationwide gas-supply situation. He added that if LNG supply continues, it may take up to two days to improve the gas-supply situation in Dhaka, Narayanganj, and Mymensingh zones of the export industry.

However, the disruption has still had a significant impact on the apparel sector, with many factories reporting order cancellations. BKMEA President Mohammad Hatem said that about 50% of factories reported that their orders have been cut or reduced for various reasons. He added that if they receive an adequate supply of energy, it would help restore buyers' confidence and recover the orders.

Many factory owners are struggling to cope with the shortage, including Sayeed Ahmed Chowdhury, Director (Operations) at Square Denim Mills, who said he is currently visiting buyers to boost their confidence. He added that if the government could ensure an adequate supply of energy, it would help boost buyer confidence and grow the business.