The government has not decided to increase fuel oil prices in the country, the Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) said, amid concerns over global supply disruptions triggered by the tensions in the Middle East.
In a notice issued on Friday, March 6, the BPC stated that there is an obligation to buy and sell fuel oil at government-fixed rates, and charging extra prices at the pretext of a crisis is a crime under the law.
In addition, the government adjusts fuel oil prices at the beginning of every month, it said.
The notice said there are reports that some consumers are collecting more fuel oil than necessary from dealers and filling stations and attempting to stockpile without authorisation. These matters came to the attention of the Energy and Mineral Resources Division, BPC, and the authorities concerned.
To address public concerns, the government would like to assure that imports are continuing as scheduled and shipments are arriving regularly to stabilise fuel oil supply, the notice stated, the notice stated.
Additionally, fuel is being transported regularly from main installations to depots nationwide through rail wagons and tankers, it added.
NS/MSU