The Benin government has announced new measures to improve access to domestic gas for consumers. Following a meeting with gas industry operators on September 30, Trade Minister Shadiya Alimatou Assouman revealed that the government will implement interchangeable commercial gas cylinders. This means that consumers can return an empty cylinder from one brand and receive a full cylinder from another brand, provided the capacity is the same.

The new policy aims to increase the availability of domestic gas and make it easier for consumers to access the fuel. The government had previously announced this measure in May 2025, with a planned rollout across the country. The Société Dépôts pétroliers du Bénin (DPB SA) will oversee the gradual standardization of gas cylinders. The practical modalities of the interchangeable cylinder system are yet to be determined.

As part of the "Mois du Consommons local" (Local Consumption Month) initiative, gas operators will offer promotions on the purchase of the first domestic gas kit, which includes a cylinder and accessories. A direct subsidy will be provided by distributors on these kits. The specific sales points offering these promotions will be communicated to consumers.

The government has also set subsidized prices for gas refills. The prices are fixed at 2,000 F CFA for 3 kg and 4,500 F CFA for 6 kg. Consumers are encouraged to report any price hikes to the customer service departments of the distributors. These measures are intended to make domestic gas more accessible and available to households.

The new policies are the result of a meeting between the government and gas industry operators. The meeting aimed to address the challenges facing the domestic gas sector and find solutions to improve access to the fuel. The government is working to ensure that the measures are implemented effectively and that consumers benefit from the changes.

The implementation of the interchangeable cylinder system and promotions on initial kits is set to begin on October 1. The government is confident that these measures will have a positive impact on the lives of households in Benin. The country is working to increase access to domestic gas and promote the use of the fuel.

The measures announced by the government have been welcomed by consumers and industry operators. The changes are expected to improve the availability and accessibility of domestic gas, making it easier for households to access the fuel. The government's efforts to promote the use of domestic gas are ongoing, with a focus on improving the lives of citizens.

Key points

  • The Benin government introduces interchangeable commercial gas cylinders to increase access to domestic gas.
  • Subsidized prices for gas refills are set at 2,000 F CFA for 3 kg and 4,500 F CFA for 6 kg.
  • Promotions on initial domestic gas kits will be offered as part of the "Mois du Consommons local" initiative.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.