Dhaka, June 8 -- Bangladesh's steel industry is now grappling with a stark question of survival as prolonged losses deepen under the pressure of high interest rates, rising energy costs and currency depreciation, according to Maruf Mohsin, executive director of Rahim Group.

He warned that fresh electricity price hikes, combined with earlier increases in gas and dollar costs, are set to further squeeze an industry already under strain for nearly a year and a half.

While companies continue to absorb losses, he cautioned that sustained pressure could eventually be passed on to consumers.

"If the government takes some policy measures to increase consumers' purchasing power, that would be better for everyone. In the end, all will benefit," ...