ছবি: ফাইল ছবি
The government has reduced the prices of all types of fuel by BDT 2 per litre under its automatic pricing mechanism, aligning domestic rates with trends in the global energy market, with the revised prices taking effect from February. Under the new structure, the price of diesel has been lowered to BDT 100 per litre, kerosene to BDT 112, petrol to BDT 116, and octane to BDT 120, a move expected to provide modest relief to consumers, transport operators, and key economic sectors. Authorities stated that the decision reflects the government’s commitment to maintaining transparency and predictability in fuel pricing by adjusting domestic rates in response to fluctuations in international crude oil prices. Bangladesh’s annual fuel demand stands at approximately 7.5 million tonnes, with diesel accounting for nearly 75 percent of total consumption, making the diesel price reduction particularly significant for transportation, agriculture, irrigation, and logistics. Economists note that while a BDT 2 per litre reduction may not drastically alter overall inflation dynamics, it carries symbolic importance at a time when households are under pressure from rising living costs, and it could marginally ease transportation expenses and distribution costs for essential goods. Industry representatives have welcomed the move, suggesting that even a small reduction in fuel costs can help manage production expenses, improve operational efficiency, and support supply chain stability. However, consumer rights advocates caution that the real benefit of lower fuel prices must be reflected in transport fares and retail prices, emphasizing the need for strict government monitoring to prevent unjustified price rigidity. Past experiences have shown that fuel price cuts do not always translate into lower fares or commodity prices, raising concerns that without effective oversight, the intended relief may not fully reach ordinary citizens. The government has indicated that future adjustments will continue to follow global market trends, with gradual changes aimed at minimizing sudden shocks to consumers. Overall, the February fuel price reduction sends a cautiously positive signal to the economy, offering limited but meaningful relief amid persistent inflationary pressures and reinforcing the role of automatic pricing as a stabilizing policy tool.
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