On March 24, 2026, the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC) announced a substantial increase in Bangladesh jet fuel prices, raising domestic rates to Tk 202.29 per liter from Tk 112.41.
This decision, made during an emergency meeting, considered several factors including average Platts rates between March 5 and March 22, revised premiums for the first half of 2026, and the US dollar exchange rate, while keeping diesel prices unchanged.
For international flights, the price has been adjusted to $1.3216 per liter, up from $0.7385. The Aviation Operators Association of Bangladesh (AOAB) expressed significant concern, warning that this could severely impact the aviation industry.
Mofizur Rahman, Secretary General of AOAB, highlighted that there is no current fuel shortage as confirmed by the relevant ministry. He noted that 25 oil tankers had arrived in the past 22 days with fuel procured at previous prices, despite recent global oil price declines.
Rahman argued that the price hike is unjustified and disproportionately higher than in neighboring countries, where India and Nepal maintained prices, and Pakistan and the Maldives increased them by 24.49% and 18.54% respectively.
The AOAB warned that the increased operational costs could lead to severe financial strain on airlines and higher passenger costs on domestic routes. They urged the government to reconsider and set a more realistic price to ensure the industry’s stability and growth.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, March 24, 2026
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