Bangladesh party slams govt plan for private fuel imports

Jamaat-e-Islami has strongly criticized the Bangladeshi government's proposed policy to permit private companies to import and market refined fuel, labeling it a potential "new avenue for plunder." The party contends that this move would dismantle the state monopoly currently held by the Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) and replace it with a system controlled by a select group of influential business conglomerates.

At a press conference in Dhaka, Jamaat Secretary General Mia Golam Porwar stated that the Energy and Mineral Resources Division is drafting a policy that would allow private entities to handle the import, storage, transport, distribution, and marketing of refined fuel. He asserted that this is not reform but a "handover" and a "licence for corruption and plunder."

Porwar argued that private fuel imports are unlikely to foster genuine competition due to the significant infrastructure requirements, such as deep-sea port facilities, storage terminals, and pipelines, which only a few major groups possess. He also defended the BPC, citing its profitability in recent fiscal years, Tk 3,943 crore in FY2023-24 and Tk 2,050 crore in FY2024-25, after prior losses.

The party also raised concerns about the reduction of the tendering period for refined fuel imports from 42 days to 10 days for September-December. Jamaat warned this could deter international suppliers, reduce competition, and create opportunities for illicit syndicates. They questioned the wisdom of placing control of fuel, a strategic commodity vital for various sectors including agriculture, power, transport, and national security, in private hands.

Jamaat-e-Islami has demanded an immediate cessation of the proposed policy, the publication of all related documents, and a minimum of 60 days for public consultation. They also called for comprehensive reforms within the BPC, including an independent audit, professional board appointments, mandatory e-GP procurement, and quarterly disclosures of fuel import data. Additionally, the party urged for the faster implementation of the Eastern Refinery's second unit, increased strategic fuel storage, and the withdrawal of proposals to reduce legal protections for fuel-sector workers. Jamaat clarified it is not against private investment but opposes the transfer of public resources without accountability.

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This is not reform; it is a handover. It is a licence for corruption and plunder.