Fuel prices see limited adjustment in line with global market trends: Mahdi Amin

Prime Minister's Office (PMO) Spokesperson Mahdi Amin yesterday (1 June) said the government has made a limited adjustment to fuel prices in line with global market trends.

"As we do not produce fuel internally, we are fully dependent on imports. So, any global price increase directly affects us. The adjustment has been made in line with international market conditions, and the increase is limited," he said while speaking at a press conference at the PMO.

The press conference was held at the Karobi Hall of the Prime Minister's Office to brief the media on various public-oriented initiatives and programmes taken on the orders of the prime minister for smooth celebrations of Eid-ul-Adha.

Responding to a question, Mahdi Amin said Bangladesh delayed raising fuel prices longer than many other countries despite growing international pressure.

"Oil prices have increased across the world since the outbreak of the Middle East conflict. Many countries have already raised prices, while Bangladesh is among those that adjusted them relatively late," he said.

The PMO spokesperson said fuel prices in Bangladesh still remain lower compared to many neighbouring countries, helping the government keep inflation under control.

"Overall, as global oil supply and prices are changing, Bangladesh has made a limited price adjustment in line with international trends," he said.

Mahdi Amin said the latest adjustment was made considering global fuel supply conditions and rising international prices.

Replying to another question, Mahdi Amin said the government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, has been making every possible effort over the past three months to deliver what a truly accountable government can achieve.

Asked whether remarks made by State Minister for Primary and Mass Education Bobby Hajjaj regarding Dhaka University embarrassed the government following strong reactions from university teachers and students, he highlighted the historic role of Dhaka University and other public universities in the country's major democratic and political movements.

"The contribution of Dhaka University and other public universities is deeply embedded in Bangladesh's history – from the Language Movement and the 1969 Mass Uprising to the Liberation War, the anti-autocracy movement of 1990 and the July mass uprising," the PMO spokesperson said.

He said many individuals currently serving in important state positions emerged from Dhaka University and other public universities on the basis of merit and competence.

Mahdi Amin also noted that the country's private university sector began its journey during the government of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia in 1992 and has made significant progress over the years.

He said private universities also played an important role during the July movement, standing alongside public universities and people from all walks of life.

"We do not see Dhaka University, North South University or any other university separately. We believe all educational institutions complement one another rather than compete with each other," he said.

The PMO spokesperson said students frequently move between public and private universities for undergraduate and postgraduate studies, reflecting a shared national education system that helps produce skilled, capable and responsible citizens.

"As an elected government, we believe that what matters is not which university someone attended but their honesty, competence and merit," he said.

Mahdi Amin said the government wants to build a discrimination-free Bangladesh where talent and qualifications are properly recognised and where all universities receive policy support from the state.

Responding to a question regarding the buffalo named after US President Donald Trump, now kept at the National Zoo, he said the government's foremost responsibility is to maintain stability, law and order, and social harmony.

The PMO spokesperson said authorities wanted to avoid any situation that could trigger unnecessary controversy or create discomfort at home or abroad.

"A responsible and accountable government always seeks to move the country forward in a positive and festive environment where everyone can participate with goodwill and sincerity," he said.

Mahdi Amin described the handling of the matter as a prudent decision taken through government channels and later implemented as part of a state decision.