Bangladesh is on the verge of finalizing its fourth long-term liquefied natural gas (LNG) import deal with OQ Trading (formerly Oman Trading International), as the country seeks to boost import reliance and ensure future energy security. The state-run Petrobangla has concluded talks with OQ Trading and is expected to sign a sales-and-purchase agreement (SPA) soon. The deal will increase Bangladesh’s total LNG volume from long-term suppliers to around 5.0 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) by 2026, up from the current 3.50 MTPA.
However, Petrobangla is grappling with payment delays to LNG suppliers due to a currency crisis, with overdue payments reaching nearly $220 million. The government’s overall outstanding payments to energy providers and power-plant owners have now exceeded $2.76 billion. Bangladesh is eager to secure LNG supplies to meet growing demand in industries, power plants, and other sectors.