Jakarta (VNA) – Indonesia will accelerate the mandatory blending of bioethanol into fuel as global oil prices surge, its Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia said on March 9.
The move will require gasoline to contain 20% ethanol (E20) to reduce reliance on imports and lower fuel costs, Lahadalia said.
He added that the Indonesian Government will also expedite the implementation of a 50% biodiesel mandate (B50), a fuel blend of diesel and palm oil-based biofuel. Indonesia now enforces a 40% biodiesel mandate, known as B40.
"Given the current situation, the Government is seeking the best alternatives to safeguard the national energy supply," Lahadalia said, adding that the measures would also promote cleaner fuels.
The same day, Cambodian Minister of Mines and Energy Keo Rottanak said Cambodia has not experienced any fuel shortages and continues to import fuel daily, despite recent concerns over supply disruptions and rising global oil prices.
According to him, Cambodia currently maintains a fuel reserve capable of lasting 21 days, even if imports were to stop completely.
The minister acknowledged that fuel prices are rising, as newly imported fuel is more expensive due to global market trends. However, he urged the public not to panic or engage in hoarding. He also warned against storing fuel in plastic containers at home, saying the practice poses serious fire risks.
The Ministry of Mines and Energy is working with the Ministry of Commerce, under the guidance of Prime Minister Hun Manet, to inspect fuel stations nationwide to ensure compliance with government-regulated prices.
Authorities warned that fuel stations found illegally increasing prices or violating regulations could face strict penalties, including fines and the revocation of their operating licences./.
