Fuel Shortages: Panic Buying Dries Pumps Despite Sufficient Supply – TotalEnergies MD

Fuel Supply in Fiji: Panic Buying Creates Artificial Shortages Despite Adequate Stock

Concerns about fuel availability in Fiji are being driven not by actual shortages, but by panic buying and hoarding, according to Bhavana Samel, Managing Director of TotalEnergies (Fiji) Ltd. Reports indicate demand for fuel has doubled in the last ten days, with individuals purchasing excessive quantities in jerry cans and drums and repeatedly filling vehicle tanks. This surge in demand is creating artificial scarcity at the pump, despite assurances of sufficient overall supply. The situation highlights a vulnerability to consumer behavior even when underlying supply chains remain stable.

The Core of the Problem: Hoarding and Multiple Purchases

Samel explained that the core issue isn’t a lack of fuel arriving in Fiji, but rather how quickly it’s disappearing from stations. She specifically cited instances of individuals attempting to purchase up to 600 liters of fuel in a single transaction – a practice deemed a major safety hazard due to the risks associated with storing large volumes of flammable liquids. Large-scale fuel storage in enclosed spaces poses significant fire risks, and the practice too contributes to an uneven distribution, potentially leaving those with genuine needs unable to access fuel. TotalEnergies has responded by halting the sale of multiple jerry cans and drums, prioritizing safety and attempting to curb the artificial scarcity.

Confirmed vs. Unclear: Supply vs. Demand Dynamics

Confirmed: TotalEnergies (Fiji) Ltd. Maintains consistent fuel supplies from Singapore and Korea. The company has a long-term contract with its suppliers, ensuring continued deliveries despite global market volatility, including ongoing instability in the Middle East. Vessels regularly arrive to replenish stocks, with multiple shipments scheduled throughout March and April.

Unclear: The extent to which the global fuel market volatility directly impacts Fiji’s pricing at the pump remains unclear. While Samel confirmed consistent supply, the article does not detail any price fluctuations or government interventions related to fuel costs. The specific regulations governing fuel storage limits for individuals at residences and workplaces, referenced by Samel as part of the Petroleum Act, were not detailed in the source material.

How TotalEnergies is Managing the Situation

TotalEnergies is actively taking steps to manage the current situation. Beyond limiting sales of large containers, the company is prioritizing fuel distribution based on genuine require and essential services. An example cited was the Laucala Beach service station, which was fully replenished but quickly depleted despite a 25% increase in the initial fill volume. This illustrates the rapid rate at which fuel is being consumed due to panic buying. The company is currently filling cars only, while investigating the unusually high fuel volumes being purchased per vehicle.

Background: Fiji’s Fuel Supply Chain

Fiji relies on imported fuel, primarily sourced from Singapore and Korea, as confirmed by TotalEnergies. This reliance on external sources makes the nation vulnerable to disruptions in the global fuel market, though Samel asserts that current contracts mitigate this risk. The country’s fuel infrastructure includes service stations operated by companies like TotalEnergies, as well as storage facilities to maintain a strategic reserve. A recent $2 million upgrade to the Raiwaqa service station completed in March 2026 demonstrates ongoing investment in the nation’s fuel infrastructure.

What Happens Next: Calls for Government Intervention and Conservation

Samel has called on the Fijian government to investigate the situation and consider measures to curb fuel hoarding, suggesting a potential ban on the sale of fuel in jerry cans and drums. She also emphasized the importance of fuel conservation measures, such as carpooling and remote work options, to reduce overall demand. The government’s response to these calls remains to be seen. The situation underscores the need for a coordinated approach involving fuel suppliers, government regulators, and the public to ensure a stable and equitable fuel supply for all Fijians. A smartphone-based fueling system was recently launched aiming to streamline the fueling process, but its impact on addressing panic buying is not yet clear.

The current situation serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between supply, demand, and consumer behavior in the energy sector. While Fiji appears to have sufficient fuel reserves, maintaining stability requires addressing the underlying causes of panic buying and promoting responsible fuel consumption practices.