The American Chamber of Commerce in Bangladesh (AmCham) has warned that Bangladesh’s energy security is under growing pressure, stressing the need for urgent reforms to ensure reliable and affordable supply for industries and households.
Speaking at a focus group discussion titled “Powering Bangladesh Toward Energy Security” held on 9 December at the Sheraton Dhaka, AmCham President Syed Ershad Ahmed said energy security has become “critically important” as the country faces persistent fuel shortages, outdated transmission and distribution systems, declining gas reserves, and heavy dependence on imported fuels. These constraints, he noted, are undermining system reliability and slowing industrial growth.
He emphasised that Bangladesh must now prioritize stronger regulatory governance, faster exploration activities, timely infrastructure upgrades, expansion of renewable energy, and clearer investment pathways to build a resilient and future-ready energy ecosystem.
The session was moderated by Paul Frost, Commercial Counselor at the U.S. Embassy in Dhaka, reflecting continued U.S.–Bangladesh cooperation in trade and investment.
The event was attended by Eric M. Walker, AmCham Vice President and President of Chevron Bangladesh; Prof. M. Tamim, Vice Chancellor of IUB and noted energy expert; Muhammad Imrul Kabir, Director of Corporate Affairs at Chevron Bangladesh; AmCham members from the power and energy sector; and senior executives from leading industry players.
The discussion was supported by Chevron Bangladesh, which has been partnering with Bangladesh for three decades. As the country’s largest gas producer, Chevron supplies nearly 60 per cent of domestic gas demand and has invested around USD 4.2 billion in Bangladesh’s economy and community development.