Bangladesh gas shortage triggers industrial shutdowns and power cuts

A severe natural gas shortage in Bangladesh is causing widespread industrial shutdowns, power outages, and threats to food security. The Ashuganj fertiliser factory, a major producer of urea, has been idle since March 2025 due to the crisis. It is one of six major fertiliser plants facing restricted operations or total closure.

The shortage is attributed to declining domestic production caused by underinvestment in aging gas fields and exploration, compounded by disrupted Middle East imports. The economic impact is significant, as the energy crisis affects the textile sector, which generates approximately 80 per cent of the country’s export earnings.

To manage the crisis, the government has implemented electricity-saving measures, including requiring shopping malls to close an hour earlier. The shortage also affects domestic households, leading to regular blackouts and limited access to piped gas.