Dhaka, Mar 08 (V7N) – Despite uncertainty over Bangladesh’s energy imports amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, several ships carrying oil and gas are continuing to arrive at the country’s main seaport.

Officials said eight vessels carrying fuel anchored at Port of Chittagong on Sunday morning. The ships had already crossed the Strait of Hormuz before February 28, prior to the disruption in shipping caused by the ongoing regional conflict.

Syed Refaet Hamim, secretary of the Chittagong port authority, confirmed the development.

Meanwhile, the Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) on Friday set limits on the sale of fuel oil amid concerns that the global supply of fuel could decline due to the conflict in the Middle East.

Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil transit routes, has reportedly been suspended since the war began on February 28.

Although vessels that passed through the strait before the escalation have managed to reach Bangladesh, ships that departed later are currently stuck at various ports in the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Dubai.

Officials say the situation could affect future fuel imports if the disruption to shipping continues.

END/SMA/AJ