Bangladesh has introduced new austerity and energy-saving measures, including reduced office hours and spending cuts, as global fuel disruptions linked to the US-Israel-Iran conflict strain power supplies.
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Officials said the cabinet approved the steps on Thursday to stabilise the country’s energy situation, as Bangladesh faces mounting pressure due to its heavy reliance on imported fuel and volatile global prices.
Under the new directives, government offices will operate from 9am to 4pm, while markets and shopping centres must close by 6pm to conserve electricity.
Authorities have also ordered reductions in non-essential public expenditure and urged industries to limit power consumption, including restrictions on excessive lighting.
The Ministry of Education Bangladesh is expected to issue fresh guidelines for schools from Sunday, with options such as revised schedules and a possible shift to online classes under consideration.
To promote energy efficiency, the government will allow duty-free imports of electric buses for schools and offer incentives to participating institutions.
In recent weeks, Bangladesh has already implemented fuel rationing measures, restricted vehicle sales, and reduced fuel station operating hours in response to panic buying and supply shortages.
Authorities warned that supplies remain under pressure despite temporary relief during holidays, as long queues and hoarding continue to challenge distribution.
State-run agencies are working to secure energy supplies for the country’s population of approximately 175 million, while also exploring alternative energy sources amid ongoing uncertainty in global markets.
The government is seeking more than $2.5 billion in external financing to support imports of fuel and liquefied natural gas, as rising energy costs continue to strain foreign exchange reserves.
