Dhaka, April 14 -- Despite strong opposition from consumer advocacy groups and industry representatives, the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC) has announced a fresh increase in gas tariffs for new industrial users.

The revised rates, effective from 13 April, reflect a 33 per cent hike for new connections under both general industrial and captive power categories.

Business leaders expressed surprise and concern over the decision, warning it could severely hamper industrial growth. They urged the government to reconsider the move in order to safeguard one of the country's most critical economic sectors.

Speaking to The New Nation on Sunday, Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) President Taskeen Ahmed said, "We expre...