Benin fuel reserves hold steady with 3-6 months supply, Houngbédji confirms

The government spokesperson has ruled out fuel shortages, attributing recent long lines at petrol stations to a surge in demand from consumers who previously relied on the informal market.

Government affirms sufficient fuel reserves

Government spokesperson Wilfried Léandre Houngbédji has confirmed that Benin’s fuel reserves can now cover between three and six months of consumption, up from just one month previously. He made the announcement during an appearance on Bénin TV, describing the increased storage capacity as sufficient to prevent shortages despite recent demand spikes.

Houngbédji attributed the sudden demand surge to consumers switching from the informal market to official stations after price adjustments increased the cost of fuel sold through unofficial channels.

Market shift drives formal sector demand

Before the price adjustment, approximately 70% of petrol and diesel users in Benin purchased fuel from the informal market, locally known as kpayo. When informal prices rose above regulated prices, many consumers shifted to official stations, creating unexpected pressure on supply networks.

To address the sudden increase in demand, the Ministry of Domestic Trade convened an emergency meeting with petroleum industry stakeholders in Cotonou on October 14. Distributors and station operators were given 48 hours to increase supply and stabilize distribution across the country, particularly in the northern regions where queues had become most pronounced.

Regulated prices remain unchanged

The government has maintained the official petrol price at 725 FCFA per liter, with Houngbédji stating that this regulation was designed to protect households from fluctuations in the global fuel market. He also urged operators to expedite tank refilling and improve service efficiency at pumps to meet growing demands.

While the increased reserves provide reassurance against immediate shortages, the government continues to monitor supply chains and market dynamics to ensure long-term stability.

By Alasane OUEDRAOGO — Journalist