Bangladesh is exploring the potential to import natural gas from Myanmar via a pipeline, aiming to bolster bilateral energy cooperation, officials said on August 2, 2026. Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood expressed Bangladesh's substantial domestic demand for natural gas and keen interest in importing it from Myanmar to help meet that demand.
During a meeting with Myanmar's Ambassador to Bangladesh U Kyaw Soe Moe, the minister highlighted the potential for energy cooperation between the two countries. The Myanmar ambassador positively received the proposal and suggested that the supply of liquefied natural gas (LNG) could also be explored.
Both sides expressed interest in revisiting discussions on the previous proposal to construct a pipeline from Myanmar to Chattogram. The minister proposed a meeting between the respective energy ministers of Bangladesh and Myanmar to expedite discussions in the energy sector. He also extended an invitation to Myanmar's energy minister to visit Bangladesh and expressed his own interest in visiting Myanmar if necessary.
The proposal comes in the context of a recent proposal for a China-Myanmar-Bangladesh corridor. The minister emphasized that establishing a pipeline between Bangladesh and Myanmar could play a supportive role in this initiative. The meeting also touched on strengthening long-term trade relations and expanding energy cooperation between the two countries.
Referring to the 'Neighbour First' policy, the minister conveyed Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's commitment to enhancing bilateral relations. The Myanmar ambassador suggested that the existing Bangladesh-Myanmar Joint Technical Committee could convene to review the proposal. Officials from both countries see many potential areas for cooperation.
