Power, LNG Subsidies Rapidly Depleted in 2.5 Months

Bangladesh has spent nearly half of its FY202627 budget allocation for power and LNG subsidies in just two and a half months, as soaring international energy prices drive up import costs.

The government allocated about Tk480 billion for the two sectors, of which Tk238 billion, or 49.6%, had been disbursed by September 20.

The power sector received Tk138 billion, equivalent to around 37% of its Tk370 billion annual allocation.

The LNG subsidy allocation is under even greater pressure.

Of the Tk110 billion budgeted for LNG imports, around Tk100 billion had already been disbursed in July and August, leaving only Tk10 billion for the rest of the fi scal year.

Offi cials warned that subsidy requirements could rise sharply if LNG prices remain elevated.

Bangladesh has recently purchased spot LNG at nearly $30 per MMBtu, about three times the preMiddle East confl ict level.

The government had allocated Tk60 billion for LNG subsidies in FY2025-26, but actual spending rose to Tk166 billion by the end of that fi scal year.

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