The LPG Operators Association of Bangladesh (LOAB) has directed all its member companies, distributors, dealers and retailers to sell liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders strictly at prices fixed by the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC).
The association has also warned that any operator found charging prices above BERC-approved rates or engaging in unlawful stockpiling will face punitive action under existing laws.
The directives were issued in a press release signed by LOAB President Mohammed Amirul Haque on Thursday.
According to the release, the country’s LPG supply and pricing situation was discussed at an exchange meeting held at the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources on Monday.
The meeting was informed that LPG imports remained at satisfactory levels, with 1.58 lakh metric tonnes imported in August and another 1.56 lakh tonnes in September.
LOAB stated that these volumes were sufficient to meet domestic demand, leaving no justification for creating an artificial shortage in the market.
The association emphasised that despite adequate supplies, any LPG operator, distributor, dealer or retailer found selling cylinders above the BERC-fixed price or illegally hoarding LPG would be considered in violation of existing laws and regulations.
LOAB also referred to an online meeting held on September 30, during which the concerned minister instructed Deputy Commissioners to closely monitor LPG markets and take necessary measures to prevent irregularities.
Against this backdrop, LOAB has instructed all member companies and their distribution and retail networks to immediately ensure that LPG cylinders are sold at the prices prescribed by BERC.
The association added that it would continue cooperating with government administrative authorities and law enforcement agencies to protect consumer interests, prevent market manipulation and maintain stability in the LPG market.
