LPG Gas Prices Rise Again Amid Market Volatility
Amid ongoing inflation and market instability, the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC) has once again increased the price of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) at the consumer level. The price of the widely used 12-kg LPG cylinder has been raised by Tk 50 for February, setting the new price at Tk 1,356. The new price came into effect from Monday evening (February 2).
Previously, in January, the price of the same cylinder was Tk 1,306. As a result, cooking gas prices have increased by more than Tk 100 over two consecutive months, raising concerns that household expenses will rise further for ordinary families.
BERC stated that the new prices were set in line with international market rates and import costs. However, questions remain regarding the implementation of the official price in the retail market. In various areas of the capital, 12-kg cylinders are being sold for Tk 2,200 to Tk 2,300—nearly Tk 1,000 higher than the officially fixed price—effectively placing an additional financial burden on consumers.
Not only cylinder gas, but the price of centrally supplied reticulated LPG has also been increased. The new price has been set at Tk 109.29 per kg, up from Tk 105.08 last month. At the same time, the price of autogas used in vehicles has also risen. The new price has been fixed at Tk 62.14 per liter, following an increase of Tk 2.34.
Statistics show that LPG prices have been fluctuating over the past several months. Prices were revised multiple times in November and December as well. While there were slight reductions when international prices fell, prices have been rising consistently in recent times.
The government has said that LPG imports are being increased ahead of Ramadan in an effort to normalize supply. However, stakeholders believe that without effective market monitoring, consumers will not benefit from the announced prices.
Overall, this price hike in the energy sector is expected to further increase the cost of living for middle- and low-income people—an issue that has now become a major concern.
