Dhaka, Nov 23 (V7N) — The price of gas used in fertilizer factories has been increased from Tk 16 to Tk 29.25 per cubic meter. The announcement was made by the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC) at a press conference on Sunday.

The new rate will come into effect on December 1 and will remain in force until further notice.

Earlier, during a public hearing on October 6, Petrobangla and gas distribution companies had proposed raising the price to Tk 40 per cubic meter. Later, the BERC technical committee recommended revising the price to the current level instead.

At that hearing, BERC Chairman Jalal Ahmed emphasized that the commission would make a balanced decision by considering all relevant aspects. He acknowledged concerns that a rise in gas prices could increase fertilizer production costs, which may impact agriculture.

“Agriculture must be taken into account. Even though its contribution to GDP is relatively small, food security and large-scale employment depend on it,” he said, adding that LNG import costs also remain a significant factor in pricing decisions.

END/SMA/AJ