Bangladesh is taking strict steps to deal with a growing energy crisis, as pressure builds on its power supply and economy.
Starting Friday, the government is cutting working hours in many institutions and forcing shopping centers and stores to close earlier. The goal is simple: reduce electricity use and ease the strain on the national grid.
At the same time, the Cabinet has approved a plan to cut government spending on fuel and energy by up to 30%. This includes stopping non-essential programs like employee training and putting a freeze on buying new vehicles, ships, and aircraft.
The measures go even further. Authorities have banned decorative lighting at events and celebrations, showing that the government is trying to save energy wherever possible—even in small, non-essential areas.
The root of the problem is clear. Bangladesh relies heavily on imported energy—about 95% of its fuel comes from abroad. That makes the country very sensitive to global price swings and supply disruptions.
And right now, those global conditions aren’t helping. Rising energy prices and unstable supply chains are making imports more expensive and harder to manage.
This is happening at a tough time for the economy. Foreign exchange reserves are under pressure, and the cost of imports is rising. Because of this, the government is now looking for around $2.5 billion in external financing just to secure its energy needs.
In simple terms, Bangladesh is tightening spending and cutting consumption to get through a difficult period—trying to balance limited resources while keeping the country running.
