RE: The Phulbari Project26 Aug 2025 17:27
In early 2025 a seminar and discussion was organised by the Hydrocarbon Unit of the Power and Energy Ministry, in attendance was the Power and Energy Adviser along with numerous Academics and Mining Experts. Information about the proposal to mine Phulbari from Asia Energy was presented. The overall consensus was that the way forward was to recommend to the next elected government that the project,utilising open pit mining, should go ahead. The Energy Adviser stressed that 'mining of our resources is essential for relieving stress on fuel imports ', he is further reported to have stated that $15bn in funding was on offer from a 'mining company' to facilitate the project. The project will be part of the Chinese Belt and Road initiative.
Power China, having signed a MOU to develop the mine, including removal of the overburden, is also working with the government on implementing the nearby Teesta River reclamation project, it has been speculated that overburden from Phulbari would be utilised in that process. In July 2025 the Interim Government notified the Chinese authorities of their intention to go ahead with the project utilising the $550 million in funding that was on offer. As with the Phulbari project discussions are ongoing between stakeholders, partners, the election contesting political parties and the Interim Government.
Estimated to contribute 1.5% annually towards the countries GDP the Phulbari Project will truly be a step change in reducing Bangladeshs' balance of payments, maintaining it's forex reserves and moving the Nation forwards in it's goal of eradicating poverty through economic growth, job creation and a stable power supply for both industry and domestic use
https://www.phulbari.org/about-4
Icing on the cake Teesta Project Implementation,contracted with Power China
https://www.tbsnews.net/bangladesh/govt-now-awaits-550m-chinese-loan-revive-decade-old-teesta-project-1216896