Benin Ministry of Interior Trade Addresses Fuel Situation

The Benin Ministry of Interior Trade has assured citizens that there is no shortage of hydrocarbons in the country, contrary to concerns sparked by long queues at fuel stations. According to Fernando José Gomez, Director of Interior Trade and Economy Formalization for the Atlantic and Littoral regions, the country's hydrocarbon deposits are adequately stocked. He made these remarks on TVC Bénin on November 14.

The fuel crisis has been a pressing issue in Benin for several weeks, with the minister requesting distributors to deploy additional logistical resources in mid-October. The government's spokesperson, Wilfried Léandre Houngbédji, had previously stated that the country's reserves covered at least a quarter or even half a year, dismissing claims of a shortage.

Gomez revealed that the national stock of fuel has significantly increased, rising from one month to three or even six months. However, he attributed the current shortage to a logistical problem in the distribution chain. The official distribution network used to supply around 300,000 liters per day, but national demand stands at 2.5 million liters.

The surge in demand has put pressure on the formal distribution network, causing some clients from the informal market to turn to fuel stations. Gomez stated that the excess fuel is being transported to stations that may not be equipped to handle it. To mitigate the situation, the government has ensured that fuel prices have not increased substantially, despite a nearly twofold rise in international prices.

Since October 8, the price of one liter of fuel has remained at 750 francs, while diesel is priced at 765 francs. However, Gomez noted that some fuel station attendants have been selling their supplies to resellers who then sell at inflated prices on the black market. To combat this, the ministry has deployed personnel to conduct strict controls.

As part of the measures to address the crisis, fuel stations are now only allowed to serve vehicle reservoirs. Gomez estimated that the queues currently comprise around 10 vehicles and 20 to 30 motorcycles. He expressed optimism that the situation would improve by the weekend and urged fuel operators to invest more in expanding their networks.

Gomez called on citizens to remain calm, assuring them that the government is working to resolve the issue. He encouraged fuel operators to invest in expanding their networks to cover the entire national territory. With these measures, the ministry aims to stabilize the fuel supply and alleviate the challenges faced by citizens.

Key points

• The Benin Ministry of Interior Trade has assured citizens that there is no shortage of hydrocarbons in the country.
• The current fuel shortage is attributed to a logistical problem in the distribution chain.
• The government has ensured that fuel prices have not increased substantially despite a rise in international prices.