MERA imposes ban on fuel sales in jerrycans in major cities

The Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA) has announced a ban on the sale of fuel in jerrycans, drums, and other similar containers in Blantyre, Lilongwe, Mzuzu, and Zomba.

This move, effective October 16, 2024, according to MERA, is aimed at combating malpractices within the fuel trading sector and ensuring fair access to fuel amidst temporary supply chain disruptions caused by foreign exchange shortages.

In a statement released on 16th October 2024, MERA expressed concerns over an increase in malpractices within the fuel trading sector, which undermines the goal of ensuring fair access to fuel for Malawians.

“The Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA) has noted with concern an increase in fuel trading malpractices which are undermining efforts to ensure fair access to fuel amidst the temporary supply chain disruptions caused in part by foreign exchange availability challenges,” reads part of the statement.

According to MERA, fuel importers, transporters, and Oil Marketing Companies have been striving to restore fuel availability across all major distribution points.

“At this point, it is necessary to complement the industry’s efforts with measures to curb retrogressive efforts that have resurfaced in the domestic fuel market. In this regard, Oil Marketing Companies and Fuel Service Stations operating in Blantyre, Lilongwe, Mzuzu, and Zomba are directed to stop selling fuel in jerrycans, drums, and other such containers without authorisation from MERA,” reads part of the statement.

Additionally, the regulator has reiterated the importance of adhering to the set retail prices, which are currently K2,530 per liter for petrol and K2,734 per liter for diesel, warning that any service station found violating these price regulations faces the risk of suspension or revocation of their operating license.

The authority further encouraged the public to report any illegal fuel trading practices to the nearest police station or by contacting MERA directly, as it continues to promote compliance and prevent exploitation in the domestic fuel market.

There have been reports of scarcity of petroleum products in some parts of the country, but the National Oil Company of Malawi (NOCMA) has assured the public of enough fuel supply