Bangladesh Seeks Alternative LNG Sources Amid Persian Gulf Disruptions

The Government of Bangladesh is diversifying its liquefied natural gas (LNG) supply sources to mitigate a deepening energy crisis triggered by shipping disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. The crisis intensified after the Government of Qatar extended a force majeure on shipments following an attack on its Ras Laffan plant during the U.S.-Iran conflict, resulting in supply shortages and a $2.5 billion increase in energy import costs.

To reduce reliance on Persian Gulf shipments, the government is pursuing immediate LNG supplies from Malaysia using specialized cryogenic ISO tanks. Additionally, officials have issued tenders for prompt shipments from the United States.

Energy Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood has also proposed constructing a pipeline to import gas from Myanmar as a long-term strategic measure to stabilize the national energy supply.