CHATTOGRAM BUREAU – In a major move to ease fuel supply concerns, the first shipment of octane since the escalation of the Middle East conflict arrived at Chattogram Port today. The vessel, MT Central Star, carrying 26,000 tonnes of octane, anchored at the port on Thursday afternoon.
According to sources at the Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC), the shipment was supplied by the Singapore-based international energy giant, Vitol, with the fuel originating from Malaysia.
Meghna Petroleum Limited, a state-owned subsidiary, is responsible for unloading and distributing the fuel. Speaking on the development, Managing Director Md. Shahirul Hasan assured the public:
“There is currently no octane crisis in the country. This new shipment will further bolster our stocks. We expect the unloading process to be completed within two days.”
Background of the Supply Strain
Octane is primarily used for motorcycles, private cars, and microbuses. Supply became erratic following the outbreak of conflict involving Iran on February 28. Since then, many filling stations across the country reported shortages, with some displaying “No Octane” signs. While the situation has improved slightly over the last month, BPC officials believe this new 26,000-tonne cargo will bring much-needed stability to the market.
Consumption and Stock Data
Per the “BPC Batayan” and the latest annual report:
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Total Sales (FY 2024-25): 415,000 tonnes.
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Production: Approximately 50% is produced locally; the rest is imported.
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Current Stock: As of April 6, the country had 10,526 tonnes of octane in reserve.
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Daily Demand: Average daily sales in March were 1,222 tonnes, which was slightly adjusted to 1,114 tonnes in April due to supply management.
While ten ships carrying diesel, jet fuel, and furnace oil arrived in March despite the war, seven scheduled vessels were delayed. This arrival marks the end of a month-long gap in octane imports.