FCCC probes fuel shortages

Government has tasked the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) to investigate why some gas stations were not supplying fuel, fueling panic and long traffic at gas stations.

Speaking to this masthead, Minister for Finance Esrom Emmanuel said the different oil companies could be implementing their strategies on the fuel supply order.
"For our oil price to rise, it will take another one or two months because our price are controlled and we have two months lag time, so we should only expect fuel increase by May, when the new order comes in."
Mr Emmanuel said oil ordered last month was still on its way to Fiji. He assured the public that there's enough fuel for another month, and there was no need to panic.
"That's why the notices were up. Between the different oil companies in Fiji, we have around 20 to 45 days' supply," he said.

"There could be elements of hoarding because these oil sup­pliers are projecting fuel prices to increase.

Mr Emmanuel said oil ordered last month was still on its way to Fiji. He assured the public that there's enough fuel for another month, and there was no need to panic.

He reminded oil suppliers that withholding fuel is not allowed.

Government has also established a taskforce to assess the situation and provide feedback to Govern­ment.

Mr Emmanuel hinted that ration­ing could be possible in the future if global supply continues to be affected by the war in the Middle East.

"Two things can happen if war continues, we may have to get our fuel from other sources, and the price of fuel will increase." Fiji currently sources its fuel from Singapore and gas from Australia.

The taskforce comprises sen­ior government officials from the Ministry of Energy, Ministry of Finance and the Prime Minister's Office. Government is expected to receive an update from the team today.

Oil Company
Responding to questions from this masthead, TotalEnergies said there was no shortage of stock in Fiji.

"TotalEnergies will continue to supply to the citizens. TotalEner­gies Fiji is proactively managing its fuel distribution to ensure steady supply for the country while global fuel markets remain volatile.

"However there has been a sud­den increase in demand. We are urging the public to avoid storing large quantities of fuel in contain­ers in a closed area due to safety risks and to ensure fair access to all motorists.

"We are encouraging motorists to use fuel responsibly during this pe­riod of international uncertainty, helping ensure fuel remains avail­able for essential services and the wider community at all times."