First LPG tanker reaches BD via Strait of Hormuz

For the first time since the outbreak of conflict involving Iran, an LPG tanker has reached Bangladesh after crossing the Strait of Hormuz.

The vessel, named MT BW Enke Bornholm, arrived from the Gulf of Oman and completed unloading its cargo at Sitakunda in Chattogram last Friday.

According to shipping agents, this is the first LPG carrier to reach Bangladesh from the Persian Gulf region via the Strait of Hormuz since the conflict began.

The LPG was imported by BM Energy (BD) Limited, a subsidiary of the Smart Group.

The vessel carried 3,800 tonnes of LPG and began its journey from the Port of Duqm in Oman.

It partially unloaded cargo in Sri Lanka before delivering the remaining shipment at Sitakunda.

The importing company stated that despite disruptions in supply chains due to the conflict, the shipment was made possible through continuous communication with international suppliers.

Tensions in Middle Eastern waters have escalated sharply following an attack on Iran on 28 February and Tehran’s subsequent retaliation.

The situation worsened after Iran announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, significantly increasing security risks in the Persian Gulf.

The International Bargaining Forum (IBF) has declared the region a “war zone.”

Due to heightened risks, insurance companies have increased war risk premiums, raising transportation costs considerably.

Meanwhile, two major fuel tankers crucial for Bangladesh remain stranded in the Persian Gulf.

The vessel MT Libretha, carrying 62,000 tonnes of LNG, is stationed off the coast of Qatar, while MT Nordic Pollux, with 100,000 tonnes of crude oil, is anchored outside Ras Tanura port in Saudi Arabia.

Both vessels have been unable to proceed to Bangladesh due to restrictions on navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.

To ensure the safety of these stranded vessels, Bangladesh has initiated diplomatic communication with Tehran.

On 25 March, a formal letter was sent to Iran providing detailed information about the ships.

Although Iran has responded positively, the vessels have not yet been able to depart due to ongoing technical and diplomatic processes.

According to the National Board of Revenue, a significant portion of Bangladesh’s energy demand depends on the Middle East.

In the first eight months of the current fiscal year, 80% of crude oil and 65% of LNG imports came from the region.

If navigation through the Strait of Hormuz is not restored quickly, concerns over domestic energy supply in Bangladesh are likely to intensify.