Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir has said that there is no possibility of industrial production declining due to fuel issues.
“In industries powered by gas, calculations are made only after ensuring the gas supply. Similarly, the Ministry of Energy has ensured an uninterrupted gas supply,” he said while speaking to reporters after a meeting with business leaders in Sylhet this afternoon (3 April).
Muktadir, also the industries minister, further said that due to global conditions, exports have decreased as consumption has reduced in various regions.
“The decline in ready-made garment exports is not unique to Bangladesh; all competing countries have experienced a drop. This is a global reality,” he added.
Referring to recent discussions with Japan, the minister said a joint economic agreement has already been signed and will come into effect once it is passed in parliament.
He expressed optimism that Bangladesh will be able to attract increased Japanese investment in the future.
On the issue of LPG price increases, the minister said that if prices rise at the source, it will naturally be reflected locally.
“Prices have been adjusted immediately in other countries when conflicts arise. Even in the United States, the price has exceeded $4 per gallon.”
He noted that although Bangladesh is a low-income country, the government has maintained prices so that the impact on people’s purchasing power is minimised.
Regarding the energy crisis, he said that panic is a contagious disease. “Panic-driven behaviour prompts others to panic as well. There is no reason to be alarmed. Abnormal price increases at the source and irregularities in supply exist, so people should use energy more efficiently.”
Regarding the directive to close business establishments after 6pm, he said the move is aimed at reducing electricity consumption during peak hours.
“The government is taking precautionary steps to manage the current situation and avoid additional costs,” he said.
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