Dhaka, Jan. 4 -- The Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources has accused retailers of creating an "artificial" liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) shortage to push up prices, and said local administrations have been asked to take action against those responsible.

The ministry made the claim in a statement issued on Sunday after a 3pm meeting with LPG traders at the Energy and Mineral Resources Division, chaired by Energy Secretary Mohammad Saiful Islam.

Officials said the country currently has adequate LPG stocks, citing import data reviewed at the meeting.

They also said the market is facing temporary pressure due to higher international prices and transport difficulties.

Traders at the meeting alleged that retailers had tightened ...