Dhaka: Finance Adviser Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed announced today that the government has no immediate plans to raise fuel prices, despite the ongoing Iran-Israel conflict. Salehuddin addressed concerns about potential disruptions in oil supply and price hikes during a press briefing at the Secretariat following meetings of the Advisory Council Committee on Economic Affairs and the Advisory Council Committee on Government Procurement.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr. Salehuddin emphasized that while fuel prices have risen slightly due to the conflict, the shipments ordered by the government remain unaffected for now. He noted that if the conflict persists, it could exert pressure on the country's fuel supplies. The adviser reassured that the government is taking precautionary measures to mitigate potential disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global shipping route.
Dr. Salehuddin highlighted that the LNG imports approved by the government today were secured at previous rates, indicating that the government is benefiting from favorable pricing. He stated that the Ministry of Energy is actively exploring alternative measures for fuel supply, considering the nation's heavy reliance on LNG. The adviser also mentioned potential impacts on fertilizers and shipping due to the conflict, but expressed optimism that the war would not be prolonged.
In response to questions about rising fuel prices in other countries, Dr. Salehuddin assured that the government is currently not considering any changes in fuel pricing and will continue to monitor the situation closely.