Collaboration with Pertamina ensures BBM imports reach private gas stations amid recent shortages.

Private fuel retailers in Indonesia, including Shell and BP-AKR, will see their supply stabilized this week as Pertamina facilitates BBM imports to resolve shortages at multiple gas stations.

Pertamina Leads Import Coordination

Pertamina Patra Niaga (PPN) confirmed on Wednesday, 24 September 2025, that imported base fuel cargoes had arrived in Jakarta. This delivery will replenish stock at private gas stations that faced supply gaps in recent days. Roberth MV Dumatubun, Pj Corporate Secretary of PPN, emphasized that Pertamina is implementing the government’s directive through Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia to collaborate with private businesses while maintaining regulatory compliance.

Quality and Compliance Measures

According to Roberth, the imported cargo has met specifications set by the Directorate General of Oil and Gas (Ditjen Migas). Quality verification will be carried out by independent joint surveyors to ensure transparency. Pertamina also committed to open-book pricing mechanisms with private companies to prevent disputes over cost structures and product standards.

Private Companies Respond

Private operators, including Shell, BP-AKR, Vivo, Exxon, and AKR, participated in two key meetings with Pertamina on 19 and 23 September. While several companies indicated the need for global headquarters’ approval, all parties expressed commitment to finalize quota requirements soon. Importantly, they agreed to procure base fuel that has not yet been mixed with additives or dyes, leaving customization to each operator.

Government Timeline for Availability

Deputy Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), Yuliot Tanjung, announced on 23 September that fuel at private gas stations should be available within seven days of the first meeting. This timeline was in line with Minister Bahlil’s instruction to resolve shortages quickly. Yuliot underlined that the collaboration is business-to-business in nature but backed by government oversight to secure energy availability for the public.

Possible Government Evaluation

The Ministry of ESDM has warned that if Pertamina and private companies fail to reach consensus on import mechanisms, it will conduct a formal evaluation. Yuliot highlighted that the government’s priority is ensuring BBM availability at all stations, whether subsidized or unsubsidized, and avoiding prolonged disruptions for consumers.

Broader Energy Impact

The coordinated import process reflects Indonesia’s effort to stabilize energy supplies while balancing state and private sector roles. For both Indonesians and Singaporeans, who are closely linked through regional fuel trade and supply chains, the move signals a more resilient approach to managing shortages and energy security across Southeast Asia.

The swift import of BBM through Pertamina’s coordination with Shell, BP-AKR, and other private companies demonstrates Indonesia’s proactive stance in securing fuel availability. By combining government directives, business collaboration, and transparency mechanisms, the country is moving toward greater stability in its energy sector—an outcome with implications not just for local consumers but for the wider SIJORI region’s economic resilience.

Sources: CNN Indonesia (2025) , Merdeka.com (2025)

Keywords: Fuel Supply, Pertamina, Shell, BP AKR, BBM Imports, Indonesia Energy