Export-oriented garment factories in Fatullah, Narayanganj, are facing major production disruptions amid a severe nationwide gas crisis. Industry sources say output at many factories has fallen by nearly half because low gas pressure is preventing timely supply of dyed fabric. Of 256 garment factories in the Fatullah BSCIC industrial area, 122 have closed over the past two years, while most of the remaining 134 are affected by the shortage.

Factory owners say July to December is the period when foreign buyers place the highest volume of orders, supporting production in subsequent months. However, they report that many buyers are not placing new orders because of the ongoing disruption. BKMEA President Mohammad Hatem said garment, knitting, dyeing and textile operations form one production chain, meaning gas supply interruptions can halt the entire cycle.

A July 26 Titas Gas directive stopped cascade CNG supplies for non-vehicle use, removing an alternative that some factories had used to operate boilers. Owners warn of uncertainty over worker wage payments, higher production costs, lower exports and reduced competitiveness. Hatem said Bangladesh could lose $1.5 billion in exports if the crisis continues.