Oil Crisis Deepens in Bangladesh Amid Global Price Surge

The edible oil shortage in Bangladesh has worsened, affecting consumers and retailers alike. The crisis began when marketing companies restricted soybean oil supplies due to rising global prices. Despite a government-approved price hike of Tk5 per liter, bottlenecks persist.

At the Lalbagh Bazar, retailers reported that suppliers have been holding back regular orders for nearly two weeks. When small quantities do arrive after repeated orders, their commissions are also cut. Rahat, a retailer at Lalbagh Bazar, said supply has not picked up since the new price was announced on Wednesday (2 September).

The shortage has led to higher prices for other essentials as well. Sugar prices have risen by about Tk10 to 15 per kg over the past two weeks due to reduced supply and higher wholesale prices. Vegetable prices have also climbed, with some common vegetables selling at Tk80 to 120 per kg.