Textile millers have called on the government to revert the gas tariff to its pre-hike level and address issues related to the US dollar to support the survival of the sector.

Despite last year’s gas price hike, which came with assurances of uninterrupted supply, the situation has not improved, they claimed.

Additionally, they urged the relevant authorities to address the crisis concerning the US dollar and implement measures to prevent business disruptions caused by customs procedures.

These concerns were raised during a view exchange meeting organised by the Bangladesh Textile Mills Association (BTMA) at its Gulshan office in the city on Tuesday.

Chaired by BTMA president Mohammad Ali Khokon, the meeting saw participation from leaders and representatives of the Bangladesh Cement Manufacturers Association (BCMA) and the Bangladesh Steel Manufacturers Association (BSMA), according to the meeting sources.

“We are in severe crisis due to poor supply of gas. We discuss the issue with our member mills and other sectors including cement and steel manufacturing sectors,” Khokon said after the meeting.

He highlighted the shrinking working capital due to the disparity between buying and selling rates of the US dollar, which has hindered their ability to purchase raw materials, negatively impacting business operations.

Moreover, the meeting highlighted difficulties faced by the industry related to customs procedures.

“All these factors are having a detrimental impact on our businesses,” BTMA president said, urging for an immediate resolution to the issues, as highlighted by participants in the meeting.

Additionally, it was revealed during the meeting that they are encountering several challenges related to customs procedures.

Furthermore, sources indicated that the severe gas shortage has resulted in damage to the machinery of textile mills, leading to their inability to supply the necessary yarn and fabric to the export-oriented garment industry.

Moreover, fabric processing plants remain closed due to their inability to operate boilers.

Despite assurances from Petrobangla regarding uninterrupted gas supply following the price hike, over a year has passed with no improvement in the gas supply situation, noted Khokon.

He announced plans to engage with leaders of the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) to find solutions and determine the next course of action.