Fuel Shortage Hits Shell and Vivo Gas Stations Across Indonesia

Background of Fuel Supply Crisis

Private gas station operators Shell and Vivo are currently facing a significant fuel stock shortage that began in late August 2025. The primary cause of this shortage is the depletion of their allocated fuel import quota. This situation has left numerous gas stations under their brands without gasoline supplies, affecting their operations nationwide.

Government Intervention and Proposed Solutions

In response to the crisis, the Indonesian government has stepped in to facilitate a solution. The government has been bridging negotiations between the affected private gas station operators and Pertamina, the state-owned oil company. The proposed solution involves allowing these private stations to purchase pure or base fuel from Pertamina to replenish their stocks.

Progress in Negotiations

While negotiations are ongoing, one major private gas station operator, PT Aneka Petroindo Raya (APR), which manages the BP-AKR gas station network, has successfully reached an agreement with Pertamina. As per the agreement, BP-AKR will purchase 100,000 barrels of pure fuel from Pertamina, setting a precedent for other private operators.

Market Implications

The fuel shortage at Shell and Vivo gas stations has significant implications for the Indonesian energy market. It highlights the complexities of fuel supply chain management and the regulatory challenges faced by private gas station operators. The situation also underscores the dominant role of Pertamina in the Indonesian fuel market.

Future Outlook

The resolution of this fuel crisis will depend on the successful implementation of the agreements between private gas station operators and Pertamina. The Indonesian energy sector will be watching closely as the situation develops, particularly how it affects the market share of various players and the overall fuel supply dynamics in the country.