Private Sector Fuel Import Welcome, Petrol Pump Owners Say

The Bangladesh Petrol Pump Owners Association has stated that it has no objection to allowing the private sector to import fuel oil into the country.

The association’s central committee convener, Syed Sajjadul Karim Kabul, shared the organization's position in a message on Friday morning.

"We have no objection to private sector fuel imports," Karim Kabul said. "However, to maintain market stability, state-owned entities Padma, Meghna, and Jamuna Oil Companies must be given the opportunity to import fuel independently under their own management. These three companies already possess extensive infrastructure for fuel import, storage, and distribution across the country."

He noted that allowing private importers to market fuel alongside the government would foster healthy competition. Additionally, it would minimize supply disruptions and lower risks associated with financial constraints during imports.

Karim Kabul added that if the government faces economic hurdles in importing fuel oil, petrol pump owners are ready to assist by providing advance funds to Padma, Meghna, and Jamuna Oil Companies to protect business interests. He mentioned that several local and international banks are also keen on financing fuel imports for these three state companies.

The convener expressed optimism that coordinating imports across both public and private sectors would create a balanced and stable fuel market, hoping the government would give the matter serious consideration.