Bangladesh, April 21 -- A sharp increase in fuel prices - ranging between Tk15 and Tk20 per litre - has triggered a wave of concern across the economy, with early signs of rising costs already evident in transport, commodities and household expenses.

The impact has been compounded by a steep rise in liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) prices, which have jumped by Tk599 for a 12-kg cylinder within just 17 days. Fears of a possible increase in electricity tariffs have further heightened uncertainty among businesses and consumers alike.

Economists warn that the ripple effects of higher fuel costs are likely to be widespread, affecting industrial production, supply chains and daily living expenses.

Transport costs have already begun to climb, in...