The Ethiopian Petroleum and Energy Authority (PEA) Tuesday issued a new directive urging citizens to conserve fuel products and shield the national economy from the volatile international oil market.
The directive comes as the government warns of significant disruptions to global oil shipments triggered by escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
Following instabilities in international supply chains and the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, the authority has mandated that all oil companies and retail stations transition their operations to a high-conservation model.
Consequently, uninterrupted supply has been arranged for national security institutions and key government infrastructure projects, particularly those nearing completion.
Accordingly, manufacturing industries, institutions producing basic consumer goods, and large-scale agricultural operations have been granted priority to maintain the domestic supply chain, while export-oriented organizations engaged in international trade are also prioritized to protect the nation’s foreign exchange earnings.
The directive establishes strict operational standards for gas stations to prevent illegal hoarding and black-market activities.
On Monday, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed called on fuel distributors, stations and consumers to use petroleum products responsibly as disruptions linked to the crisis in the Middle East affect global oil supply.
In a message shared on social media, Abiy said countries that depend on imported oil are facing difficulties in securing adequate supplies due to the ongoing war in the region.
He urged all stakeholders to use fuel carefully until the situation stabilizes and normal supply conditions resume.
“Due to the crisis in the Middle East, countries that buy and use oil have had difficulty finding supply. Until the problem is resolved and we return to a normal oil supply system, we must use oil economically and prioritize basic needs,” Abiy said.
The directive also establishes strict operational standards for gas stations to prevent illegal hoarding and black-market activities.
MG/abj/APA