Gas Price Hike For Industries ‘Necessary But Unpleasant’: Adviser

Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin has described the move to raise gas price from Tk 30 to Tk 75 per cubic metre as an “unpleasant yet unavoidable”.

“The decision to raise gas prices is not a pleasant one for the government. However, it is necessary. The adjustment will be carried out through the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC) after discussions with entrepreneurs,” he said on Wednesday.

Speaking at the inauguration of GAPExpo-2025 at the International Convention City Bashundhara in Dhaka, the adviser acknowledged the challenges posed by the price hike.

Shawkat Aziz Russel, President of the Bangladesh Textile Mills Association (BTMA), stressed that doubling gas prices without prior consultation with businesses could compel many factories to shut down.

"If this decision is implemented without proper dialogue, how is the interim government any different from the previous Awami League administration?” he questioned.

Mohammad Hatem, President of the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA), called the proposed hike excessive and unjustified.

“Why should the price be increased to Tk 70-75? Such a major decision requires thorough consultation with stakeholders. This lack of engagement is unacceptable,” he said.