Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury has stated that the recent increase in fuel prices in Bangladesh has no connection with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Speaking to reporters at the Secretariat on Sunday, shortly after returning from the United States, he clarified that the decision to raise fuel prices was made independently by the government.

The minister explained that while fuel prices have doubled in many other countries, Bangladesh’s increase was comparatively smaller. He said the adjustment was necessary due to pressure on the government’s financial reserves. When asked whether the price hike would lead to higher inflation, he responded that inflation might rise or might not, indicating uncertainty about the outcome.

The statement comes amid public attention on the economic implications of the fuel price adjustment and speculation about external influence on domestic policy decisions.