The Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) has moved to enlist international suppliers of refined petroleum products to secure future fuel supplies amid ongoing global disruptions.
In a notice issued on April 13, BPC invited suppliers to participate in an international request for quotation process to qualify for supplying products such as Jet A-1 fuel, high-sulphur fuel oil, gasoline, marine fuel and LPG.
Applications must be submitted by May 4 with a non-refundable fee of $1,000 or its equivalent in taka. Shortlisted suppliers will be required to sign a master sale and purchase agreement, enabling them to participate in both spot and term tenders.
BPC Chairman Md Rezanur Rahman said the initiative aims to create a pool of reliable global suppliers capable of meeting both short- and long-term demand.
"We want to shortlist competitive suppliers from around the world to ensure supply whenever necessary," he said.
Officials said the move comes amid disruptions in global fuel supply linked to tensions in the Middle East, including restrictions on shipping through key routes.
Several suppliers have declared force majeure, while others have deferred shipments, raising concerns over supply continuity.
Currently, BPC sources around half of its refined petroleum through international tenders, with the rest coming through government-to-government arrangements. The new enlistment process marks a shift towards a more structured supplier base, similar to LNG sourcing practices.
Fuel stocks remain under pressure due to strong domestic demand.
A vessel carrying 12,000 tonnes of jet fuel arrived at Chattogram port on Tuesday, while two more ships are expected with around 68,000 tonnes of diesel. As of April 12, jet fuel stock stood at around 22,000 tonnes, sufficient for about two weeks.
Diesel demand remains particularly high, accounting for about 63 per cent of total energy consumption. Around 133,000 tonnes were sold in the first 12 days of April, with daily consumption exceeding 11,000 tonnes.
Available diesel stock stood at approximately 119,000 tonnes, enough to meet demand for around 10 days, though incoming shipments may extend coverage slightly.
Officials said Bangladesh remains heavily dependent on fuel imports, making it vulnerable to global supply shocks.
BPC has already implemented an import plan for April and is exploring alternative sourcing options to maintain supply stability. However, sustained relief will depend on uninterrupted imports in the coming weeks.
