Indonesian government urges private fuel retailers to source supply from Pertamina

By Cepi Setiadi

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has called on private fuel retailers and non-Pertamina gas stations to procure additional fuel from state-owned oil and gas company PT Pertamina if their current allocations are insufficient. The statement follows reports of fuel shortages at several private gas stations this week.

Bahlil emphasized that the government has already distributed sufficient fuel quotas to all licensed distributors.

 “If there’s still a shortfall, then just buy from Pertamina. They have the stock,” he told reporters at the ESDM Ministry on Friday (August 29). He said the measure is also intended to help maintain the national energy trade balance and ensure energy security.

Bahlil rejected suggestions that the government is favoring state-owned enterprises over private companies, saying the allocation process is fair and transparent.

Read also : Kilang Pertamina acquires 14% stake in Patra SK

 “Of course, there are aspects we must safeguard, especially concerning national interests. We’re managing a country, not just companies,” he said.

The minister also confirmed that the 2025 fuel quota for private retailers has been raised by 10 percent compared to last year.

 “For example, if a company received 1 million liters in 2024, they’ll get 1.1 million liters in 2025. That’s already in effect,” he said.

When asked about possible price differences for private retailers purchasing fuel from Pertamina—considering the company also imports part of its supply—Bahlil dismissed the concern.

 “No, of course not. Pertamina has its own refining facilities through PT Kilang Pertamina Internasional. We still have sufficient domestic stock and are not entirely reliant on imports,” he said.

Editing by Reiner Simanjuntak