Power cuts may hamper new investment

Despite the government's assertion of achieving 100% electricity access, a survey conducted by Micro Industries Development Assistance and Services (Midas) reveals that 7.64% of consumers still resort to bribery to secure power connections.

In December 2023,  the price of 12kg liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders increased to Tk 23, now set at Tk1,404. LPG (autogas) for vehicles rises to Tk64.43 per kg from Tk63.36. Government-supplied LPG remains unchanged. The hike, unrelated to global LPG prices, is attributed to the Taka's depreciation against the dollar.

Bangladesh anticipates initiating nuclear power generation at the 2,400-megawatt Rooppur nuclear power plant by late 2024 or early 2025, as Russia completes fuel delivery via air cargo due to shipping sanctions.

Bangladesh is strategically shifting towards renewable energy investments in response to surging energy costs driven by the Ukraine War and a commitment to sustainable development. Currently, the country is evaluating five new renewable power projects with a combined 700MW capacity.

A major export fraud involving Loopdot Fashion Limited in Mymensingh, Bangladesh, has been exposed, with 225 consignments of garments falsely exported, totaling $6.8 million or 75 million taka. The fraud was revealed during the seizure of two consignments

Bangladesh's garment and textile industry, which heavily relies on European Union (EU) exports, faces potential challenges if the EU approves the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD).