Jakarta – The scarcity of non-subsidised fuel oil that has occurred since the end of August 2025 at several private gas stations has prompted the Business Competition Supervisory Commission (KPPU) to intervene to investigate allegations of unfair business practices in the energy sector.
“We have been conducting studies since the beginning of the year, and we are now strengthening the intensity of our monitoring. The results will be announced to the public in the near future,” said KPPU Chairman M Fanshurullah Asa in a press statement on Wednesday, September 10.
A shortage of non-subsidised fuel has reportedly hit private gas stations such as Shell and BP AKR, with supplies running out for more than a week. This situation has occurred in several areas, especially around Greater Jakarta and other major cities.
The KPPU believes that an unstable supply could lead to structural problems in the energy market. “The energy sector is a priority for the KPPU. We must ensure that no monopoly or anti-competitive behaviour harms the public,” said the KPPU chairman, who is familiarly known as Ifan.
Import licensing and consumption shift in the spotlight
Several factors are said to have triggered the scarcity, including complicated import licensing and increased consumption due to the switch from subsidised to non-subsidised fuel. However, KPPU does not want to rush to conclusions without a strong legal basis.
“Our analysis is based on supply availability, pricing mechanisms, market structure, and business behaviour. Everything must be based on accurate and accountable data,” explained Ifan.
As part of the investigation, KPPU has invited the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), Pertamina, and private companies that distribute non-subsidised fuel to submit data.
“We ask all parties to attend and submit complete data promptly. This is not merely legal compliance, but a public commitment to maintaining market fairness,” said Ifan.
The KPPU emphasised that the investigation would be conducted thoroughly, including testing the consistency of data across sources to identify possible structural barriers, inefficient trade practices, or alleged anti-competitive practices.
“We will disclose the results of the study to the public in accordance with the authority granted by Law No. 5 of 1999. Our goal is clear, namely to ensure a reliable energy supply, fair prices, and consumer protection,” concluded Ifan. (Hartatik)
Banner photo: Image generated by OpenAI’s DALL·E via ChatGPT (2025)
