LPG Traders Threaten Nationwide Supply Halt Over Pricing Dispute

Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) traders have threatened to suspend nationwide supply and marketing starting Thursday, January 8, unless the government issues a new price adjustment within 24 hours.

The LPG Traders Cooperative Society Limited issued the ultimatum during a demonstration in front of the Jatiya Press Club today. The group’s president, Selim Khan, warned that the industry is nearing a total collapse due to a severe supply crisis and a "faulty" pricing mechanism.

Arbitrary Pricing Khan alleged the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC) sets monthly prices without consulting distributors, forcing them to absorb losses when marketing companies adjust rates independently.

Market Panic Recent raids by the Directorate of National Consumer Rights Protection were described as "inexperienced" and counterproductive, reportedly causing panic and driving many traders out of business.

Supply Shortfall While Bangladesh has 55 million LPG cylinders, traders claim only 12.5 million are currently being refilled—a 60% deficit compared to national demand.

The association is demanding the formation of a permanent regulatory committee and an increase in commissions for distributors and retailers to keep pace with rising operational costs. They are also seeking government subsidies for inactive cylinders to stabilize the market.