The government has set limits on how much fuel consumers can purchase from filling stations amid concerns over possible supply disruptions caused by the ongoing US–Israel conflict involving Iran.
In a notification issued on Friday, the Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) said motorcycles will be allowed to purchase a maximum of 2 litres, while private cars will be able to buy up to 10 litres of petrol or octane at a time.
According to the circular, the decision was taken to address growing anxiety among consumers over the country’s fuel stock and to ensure a stable supply nationwide.
The notification noted that around 95% of Bangladesh’s fuel demand is met through imports, and global crises can occasionally disrupt or delay the import process.
Amid the current international situation, negative reports circulating in some media outlets and on social media regarding fuel reserves have reportedly triggered unusual demand among consumers.
Authorities observed that dealers have been trying to collect higher-than-usual quantities of fuel from depots, while some consumers have also attempted to purchase and stockpile fuel beyond their immediate needs, the circular added.
The government said measures are already in place to maintain a normal fuel supply. Imports are continuing according to schedule, and fuel is being distributed regularly from main installations to depots across the country through rail wagons and tankers.
Officials expressed hope that an adequate buffer stock of fuel will be built up within a short period.
Under the new directive, fuel purchase limits have been set as follows:
Motorcycles: up to 2 litres
Private cars: up to 10 litres
SUVs/Microbuses: 20–25 litres
Pickups/Local buses (diesel): 70–80 litres
Long-distance trucks and buses (diesel): 200–220 litres
The BPC also issued several conditions for fuel sales at filling stations.
Consumers must be provided with a purchase receipt mentioning the type, quantity and price of fuel. When purchasing fuel again, the original copy of the previous receipt must be submitted.
Dealers will supply fuel to consumers only after collecting purchase receipts and ensuring compliance with the allocation guidelines.
Filling stations are also required to report their fuel stock and sales information to the relevant depots before lifting additional fuel.
Fuel marketing companies will review dealers’ inventory and sales data before supplying fuel and must not provide quantities exceeding the allocated limits.
The notification also reminded dealers and consumers that fuel must be sold at government-fixed prices, and charging extra during a crisis is a punishable offence.
Fuel prices in Bangladesh are determined by the government at the beginning of each month, and authorities said no decision has been taken to increase fuel prices despite the current situation.
The government urged all consumers and dealers to follow the guidelines to help maintain normal fuel supply across the country.
