- CPC explores alternative supplies amid ME tensions
- Long-term tenders arranged by Government
Sri Lanka has secured fuel stocks until the end of August, ensuring continuity of supply despite growing tensions in the Middle East.
According to the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC), orders have been placed to cover requirements through August, in addition to long-term tenders already arranged by the Government.
CPC Managing Director Dr. Mayura Neththikumarage said that the country currently had sufficient stocks of diesel, petrol, crude oil, and naphtha to last until the end of April under prevailing consumption patterns.
“Fuel stocks are stable and adequate for the coming months,” he asserted.
Amid concerns over the closure of the Strait of Hormuz due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, Dr. Neththikumarage noted that Sri Lanka had not faced any direct impacts on imports so far.
However, to maintain energy security, the CPC has initiated alternative supply arrangements. The country is exploring fuel imports from Algeria, Nigeria, and the Russian market.
These proactive steps are aimed at mitigating any potential disruptions in global fuel transport routes, which could affect the national fuel supply chain. Dr. Neththikumarage emphasised that the CPC and the Government were monitoring the situation closely to ensure the country’s energy needs were met without interruption.
He said that all operational plans, including stock management and alternative import options, had been carefully aligned with consumption patterns and storage capacities, ensuring that there would be no immediate fuel shortages for domestic needs.
Meanwhile, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake assured Parliament earlier in the week that Sri Lanka currently had sufficient fuel reserves, with diesel stocks expected to last 33 days and petrol 28 days under current consumption.
Incoming shipments, including a 35,000 MT petrol tanker and confirmed cargoes from RM Parks, Sinopec, and Lanka IOC through March will ensure uninterrupted supply.
The President highlighted that storage capacity was the main operational constraint. Combined storage in Kolonnawa and Muthurajawela is around 150,000 MT, while Trincomalee tanks under Government control total 210,000 MT.
Plans are underway to expand storage and refine infrastructure, including new tanks, pipelines, and aviation fuel facilities, with an estimated Rs. 30 billion allocated. Refining capacity is also set to increase from 50,000–100,000 MT.
The President emphasised that there was no immediate fuel crisis, but that the Government was preparing for potential escalation, including economic and financial assessments. He noted that Sri Lanka could not remain unaffected by the global conflict and that measures were in place to support overseas workers, tourism, exports, and foreign currency stability.