The Fiji Fuel Retailers Association (FFRA) is urging motorists to remain calm and avoid panic buying, warning that unnecessary stockpiling of fuel could create shortages and disrupt essential services.
In a statement, the association said speculative buying could turn a manageable situation into a crisis by placing pressure on fuel supply chains.
“The Fiji Fuel Retailers Association is asking all customers to remain calm and avoid speculative buying,” the FFRA said.
“Stockpiling will lead to an artificial crisis, potentially turning a manageable situation into a real shortage.”
The association said a sudden surge in demand would overwhelm the logistical capacity required to transport and replenish fuel at service stations across the country.
“A sudden spike in demand will overwhelm the logistical capacity to transport and replenish fuel at individual service stations, leading to localised shortages,” the statement said.
The FFRA also warned that fuel hoarding could prevent critical sectors from accessing the fuel they require for essential operations.
“Fuel hoarding could disrupt essential services from accessing the fuel they need for critical operations,” the association said.
In addition to supply concerns, the FFRA cautioned that improper storage of fuel poses serious safety risks.
“Improper storage of fuel can significantly increase the risk of fire and explosion, creating safety risks for households and communities,” the statement said.
The association is encouraging motorists to only purchase fuel as needed.
“Please only take what you normally need, as this will extend our collective supply and better position us to handle any potential disruptions,” the FFRA said.
