Desk News || The use of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) for cooking is increasing across South Asian countries. However, consumer preferences and demand vary from country to country, resulting in differences in cylinder sizes. The most commonly used LPG cylinder in India and Nepal is 14.2 kg, while Pakistan primarily uses 11.8 kg cylinders. In Sri Lanka, 12.5 kg cylinders are more popular, whereas Bangladesh has the highest demand for 12 kg cylinders.Following the latest price adjustment, the cost of a 12 kg LPG cylinder in Bangladesh has risen to Tk 2,060. The price was increased by Tk 223 last Monday. In comparison, the equivalent amount of LPG costs approximately Tk 1,583 in Pakistan, Tk 1,567 in Sri Lanka, Tk 1,426 in Nepal and Tk 1,072 in Kolkata, India.According to India’s state-owned Indian Oil Corporation, a 14.2 kg LPG cylinder costs INR 942 in Delhi and INR 968 in Kolkata. Based on the rupee-to-dollar exchange rate, the price per kilogram in Kolkata is approximately $0.718. At the prevailing exchange rate, the equivalent price of 12 kg of LPG comes to around Tk 1,072.The Indian government also provides subsidies for low-income consumers. Eligible customers receive a subsidy of INR 300 per cylinder, with a maximum of four subsidised purchases per year. Consumers must complete biometric registration to qualify for the benefit. Without the subsidy, however, the equivalent price of 12 kg of LPG remains significantly lower than in Bangladesh.In Nepal, 14.2 kg LPG cylinders are also the most widely used. According to the Nepal Oil Corporation, the price of a cylinder is NPR 2,060. Based on the prevailing exchange rate and adjusted for a 12 kg quantity, the price is approximately Tk 1,426.In Sri Lanka, the 12.5 kg LPG cylinder is the most popular size among consumers. Data from the state-owned Litro Gas company show that the cylinder costs LKR 4,365. After adjusting the quantity to 12 kg and converting the amount into Bangladeshi currency, the price comes to approximately Tk 1,567.Pakistan also has considerably lower LPG prices than Bangladesh. According to the country’s Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority, an 11.8 kg cylinder costs PKR 3,470. When calculated for an equivalent 12 kg quantity, the price stands at approximately Tk 1,583.However, consumers in neighbouring countries also sometimes face prices above the government-regulated rates. When demand increases, LPG cylinders may be sold at higher prices in local markets, a situation also reported in Bangladesh.Meanwhile, sources at the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission say higher shipping costs for LPG transportation are a major factor behind the price difference between Bangladesh and neighbouring countries.The shipping cost for transporting one tonne of LPG to Bangladesh is approximately $250. In comparison, the cost is up to $65 in India, $80 in Pakistan and $95 in Sri Lanka.The significant gap in transportation costs is considered one of the key reasons why LPG prices in Bangladesh remain higher than those in neighbouring South Asian countries.