Jakarta – The Indonesian government has affirmed its commitment to private sector investment in fuel distribution, responding to concerns raised by companies like Shell, Exxon, and BP AKR regarding recent fuel shortages at private gas stations. Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) Bahlil Lahadalia stated the government has increased the 2025 import quota for fuel by 110% compared to 2024.
“The 110% should have been patented, right? So what investment are we blocking?” Bahlil said Friday (October 10, 2025) at the Jakarta Convention Center.
The reassurance follows a meeting on Tuesday (October 7, 2025) between representatives of the private companies and the Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming/BKPM. Private gas stations have experienced fuel stockouts sence the end of August 2025, prompting a request for collaboration with Pertamina to address the shortages.
Bahlil emphasized the government’s support for private investment, while also stressing the importance of adhering to existing regulations. “So, with regard to the private sector, we respect all existing investments. But the private sector must also follow existing regulations,” he stated.
Deputy Minister of Investment and Downstreaming/Deputy Head of BKPM, Todotua Pasaribu, acknowledged the import quota restrictions had disrupted business plans. However, he also noted the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources’ need to balance import quotas.
“Yes (disturbed),as there are quota restrictions,it is indeed quiet disturbed. But also from the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources’ side, thay also need to adjust their import quota balance,” Todotua added.
Despite the disruption, Todotua assured that private investment plans would proceed as scheduled. The meeting with the private companies centered on addressing concerns about import quota restrictions affecting the supply of non-subsidized fuel.
(ily/rrd)
