Adviser Dr. Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan addressed the gas supply deal signing ceremony as the chief guest at Bidyut Bhaban today. Photo: PID

DHAKA, June 24, 2025 (BSS) - Jalalabad Gas Transmission and Distribution System Limited today signed an agreement with LafargeHolcim Bangladesh for supplying gas at Tk. 40 per cubic feet fixed by Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC).

Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Adviser Dr Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan witnessed the deal signing ceremony as the chief guest at Bidyut Bhaban. 

He said the 10-year gas supply agreement will come into effect in January 2026.

"We are working sincerely on energy security in the country. Amid the war, an oil ship was arrived at port, though we have sufficient reserve. Suppliers bring oil from different places, which is our advantage," he added. 

Replying to a question about subsidy and price of energy, the adviser said, "We have some cautions. Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) has some money. If necessary we will adjust from there."

He said, "The amount of subsidy in gas sector is higher. We will not be able to increase subsidy anymore. The agreement with Karnaphuli Fertilizer Company Limited (KAFCO) is also being reviewed. They will have to pay gas price at the market rate."

About the agreement with LafargeHolcim, he said, "A deal is not just a gas supply agreement. It is also a message to the world that Bangladesh is a good place for investment."

Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun said, "We are working to retain old investments along with new investments. We are happy to sign an agreement with Lafarge, a global leader."

"This agreement will convey a message. Those who come to invest here may try to get to know them. Let them get a good idea about Bangladesh. I think many people will be interested in their feedback," he said.

Swiss Ambassador to Bangladesh Reto Renggli said that the agreement and the use of technology will play a significant role in LDC graduation of Bangladesh.

EU Ambassador and Head of Delegation Michael Miller said that they have been working to increase investment in Bangladesh. 

Chaired by division secretary Md Saiful Islam, the ceremony was also addressed by Spanish Ambassador to Bangladesh Gabriel Sistiaga Ochoa de Chinchetru.

Managing Director of Jalalabad Gas Transmission and Distribution Systems Limited Engineer Rafiqul Islam delivered the welcome speech.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Iqbal Chowdhury said LafargeHolcim is also making skilled manpower side by side cement manufacturing.