CPC sees fuel prices holding through Oct., steps up precautionary imports

Wednesday, 7 October 2026 05:43 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Two additional shipments are being expedited, with October imports planned above estimated requirements
Links shortages in certain areas to private sector suppliers and distributors

The Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) yesterday said current fuel prices can be maintained until the end of October and assured that the country has adequate stocks, while moving to secure additional shipments as a precautionary measure.

Addressing the media, CPC Chairman D.J. Rajakaruna said the Corporation was also confident of maintaining the current fuel price and supply situation over the next three months, provided there were no major unforeseen disruptions.

“There is no issue with fuel stocks,” he said, while urging motorists not to panic over reports of shortages or form unnecessary queues at filling stations.

He said CPC reviews its fuel stocks every Tuesday and that the latest assessment had found no concerns over available reserves. Nevertheless, arrangements had been made to expedite two additional fuel shipments, while imports exceeding the country’s requirements for October were also being secured as a precaution.

Rajakaruna said any temporary shortages being experienced in certain areas were linked mainly to other fuel companies reducing supplies to their filling stations, rather than an overall shortage in the country.

Around 62 areas, where such shortages could potentially occur had been identified about three weeks ago, he said, following which arrangements were made with the relevant companies to increase supplies to those locations.

“If fuel shortages or long queues are reported at stations operated by other companies, the public can use the nearest CPC filling station,” he said.

The CPC Chairman stressed that there was no reason to expect a major countrywide fuel shortage and appealed to motorists to avoid precautionary buying, which could itself create unnecessary queues and localised supply pressure.