Dhaka, April 25 -- Production costs in Bangladesh's ready-made garment export sector have risen by nearly 20 percent amid a fuel crisis triggered by ongoing tensions in the Middle East, according to the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA).

Mohammad Hatem, president of the trade organisation, said industrial units are struggling to secure adequate fuel supplies.

"In many instances, factories are facing difficulties as the supply of oil in containers from filling stations has been halted," he said.

He also said the power situation has become increasingly unstable.

"Load-shedding averages two to three hours, and in some areas, it lasts between six to eight hours, causing major disruptions to production," H...