US Grants Bangladesh 60-Day Waiver for Russian Fuel

The United States has granted Bangladesh a fresh 60-day waiver to import Russian-origin refined petroleum products, offering temporary relief to the country’s strained fuel supply amid global energy disruptions.

Officials at the Energy and Mineral Resources Division said the waiver took effect on 11 April and will remain valid until 9 June. The decision was formally communicated by the US government to Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The move follows an earlier 30-day waiver issued in March, which applied only to shipments already in transit and did not allow new purchases. Officials said that arrangement provided little benefit, as no Russian oil cargoes were en route to Bangladesh at the time.

The new waiver creates an opportunity for fresh imports, particularly diesel, as Bangladesh seeks to diversify supply sources and manage rising global prices.

Energy officials said the government is planning to import up to one million tonnes of diesel from Russian sources during the waiver period. The Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation is preparing to begin with an initial shipment of around 100,000 tonnes under an arrangement involving a US-based supplier.

The decision comes amid continued volatility in global energy markets, partly driven by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which have disrupted supply chains and increased costs.

Bangladesh, heavily reliant on imported fuel, has faced difficulties securing stable supplies from traditional sources due to price fluctuations and limited availability.

The waiver request was made in late March, with authorities citing sharp increases in global energy prices and challenges in sourcing fuel from conventional suppliers. Officials noted that Russia had emerged as a viable alternative due to its capacity to deliver quickly.

The proposal followed a series of discussions involving officials from both countries, aimed at ensuring compliance with international regulations while addressing Bangladesh’s energy needs.

The waiver temporarily eases restrictions under US sanctions on Russian energy exports, allowing Bangladesh to enter into new contracts during the two-month period.

Officials said swift execution of import plans will be crucial to stabilising the domestic fuel market. The government is expected to monitor global developments closely before deciding on further steps once the waiver expires.