Dhaka: Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC) today announced it has ‘re-fixed’ the gas price for fertilizer production to Tk.29.95 per unit, up from Taka 16, effective from December 1. BERC chairman Jalal Ahmed stated that the commission’s technical committee determined the new price in alignment with the current rate.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the announcement came during a press briefing held at the BERC conference room. Ahmed explained that the new price was set following a stakeholders’ hearing on October 6, based on proposals from Petrobangla and gas distribution companies. The decision aimed to balance various factors, including the impact on agriculture, food security, and employment.
Officials involved in the process revealed that Bangladesh Oil, Gas and Mineral Resources Corporation (Petrobangla) and four state-run distribution companies initially proposed increasing the price to Tk.40 from Tk 16. The revised price reflects a category-specific pricing plan submitted by Petrobangla and the gas distribution companies, emphasizing the necessity to import liquefied natural gas (LNG) to meet the growing demand.
The other key stakeholders participating in the decision-making process include Titas Gas Transmission and Distribution, Bakhrabad Gas Distribution Company Limited, Jalalabad Gas Transmission and Distribution System Limited, and Karnaphuli Gas Distribution Company Limited.