DHAKA, October 12, 2026: LPG distributors have announced a nationwide suspension of cylinder sales on October 15–16, protesting alleged harassment by executive magistrates and demanding a revision of their commissions.
Selim Khan, president of the LPG Traders Cooperative Society, announced the shutdown at a press conference at the National Press Club on Monday. He warned that the suspension would become indefinite if their demands were not addressed within two days.
Industry representatives said only six to seven licensed LPG operators remain actively operational, leaving hundreds of thousands of cylinders unused nationwide. They urged the government and active operators to refill these cylinders and distribute them through authorized dealers.
The distributors also called on the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC) to prevent companies from changing prices independently after the monthly rates are announced, insisting that all adjustments must receive regulatory approval.
They accused the Directorate of National Consumer Rights Protection and executive magistrates of imposing excessive fines and harassing dealers and retailers amid market volatility. They also cited financial constraints and difficulties opening letters of credit for imports as challenges facing LPG operators.
Selim Khan said the BERC chairman had assured him that the commission was reviewing their demands and would take necessary action soon.
