…3000 barrels of gasoline, 14,000 of diesel arrived on Monday, more expected today
Amid a frantic rush by motorists to secure fuel during temporary shortage, relief began arriving Monday, when a vessel carrying 3,000 baarrels of gasoline and 14,000 barrels of diesel docked at about 14:00h. Discharge operations commenced shortly after, with distribution beginning on Monday evening. Prime Minister (PM) Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips confirmed the arrival of the shipment, noting that motorists nationwide had been experiencing significant disruption in fuel availability linked to global supply challenges tied to tensions in the Middle East.
He said importers had informed the Government that fuel consignments began arriving on Monday afternoon, with additional shipments scheduled for Tuesday and later in the week to stabilise supply. The disruption is linked to escalating developments in the Middle East, where access through the Strait of Hormuz has been affected following heightened geopolitical tensions involving Iran and the United States (US). The situation has contributed to instability in global oil markets, with ripple effects felt in several countries, including Guyana. Reports indicate that crude oil prices surged to approximately US$104 per barrel amid the uncertainty, further straining supply chains and contributing to shortages in some regions.
The Guyana Oil Company (GUYOIL) has confirmed that approximately 9,000 barrels of diesel and 21,000 barrels of gasoline are expected to arrive in Guyana on Wednesday. Offloading is scheduled to begin Thursday morning. SOL Guyana Inc also reported that a vessel carrying 3,000 barrels of gasoline and 14,000 barrels of diesel arrived on Monday at about 14:00h, with discharge and distribution expected to continue into the evening. The company further noted additional supplies are scheduled, including 12,000 barrels of gasoline and 6,000 barrels of diesel expected on expected on today at 14:20h. Rubis Guyana Inc confirmed it also received multiple shipments on Monday, including 10,000 barrels of gasoline, 6,700 barrels of low sulphur diesel, and 4,500 barrels of ultra-low sulphur diesel. Further deliveries are expected on today, including 10,000 barrels of gasoline, 18,000 barrels of diesel, and 3,000 barrels of aviation fuel (AvJet).
Rumours, unnecessary public panic
Despite the incoming supply, the shortage triggered widespread panic buying, fueled largely by rumours circulating on social media. Among those identified as contributing to the spread of misinformation was the Opposition We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party, led by US-sanctioned Azruddin Mohamed, which faced criticism for amplifying claims that worsened public anxiety. Officials condemned the circulation of false information, warning that it contributed to unnecessary public panic and unsafe behaviour, including the hoarding of fuel in bottles and other improper containers. Officials also emphasised the dangers associated with unsafe fuel storage, noting the significant fire risks and potential for injury, loss of life, and property damage. PM Phillips urged calm and reassured the public that adequate supplies were entering the system. “I wish to emphasise that there is no need for concern, panic buying, or hoarding. Adequate fuel supplies are entering the system, and this temporary disruption is being resolved. I remind consumers that petroleum products are highly flammable and must be handled and stored with the greatest care. Storing gasoline in inappropriate containers poses a serious fire risk and significantly increases the potential for injury, loss of life, and damage to property,” he said. In some instances, service stations temporarily suspended operations as demand outpaced supply. Motorists reported travelling between multiple stations in search of fuel, only to encounter depleted stocks and long queues.
Shipments were already en route
President Dr Irfaan Ali on Monday convened a meeting with fuel importers to assess the situation and coordinate supply responses. At the meeting, importers assured the President that additional shipments were already en route. The President said Government is closely monitoring the situation to ensure stability and uninterrupted supply. Field observations along the East Bank of Demerara (EBD) showed heavy congestion at several service stations as rumours of prolonged shortages spread. Mobil at McDoom and Atlantic Petroleum were out of gasoline at the time of visit, while GuyOil and Two Brothers indicated that demand was rapidly approaching available supply. Meanwhile, GUYOIL dismissed claims circulating online that fuel would be unavailable for a period of three to 10 weeks, describing the message as false and malicious. The company confirmed that all its service stations remain operational and urged the public not to share or repost misinformation. The false notice had advised motorists to reduce vehicle use, carpool and rely on alternative transport, but officials stressed that it had no basis in fact.
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