The Fiji Fuel Retailers Association (FFRA) has moved to calm public concern, saying no service stations in Fiji have been closed and that recent shortages are temporary outages as outlets wait for scheduled deliveries. The association warned that panic buying and stockpiling are compounding supply disruptions and urged motorists to stick to normal purchasing patterns.
FFRA representative Sumeet Singh said speculative buying — customers purchasing more than they need out of fear of shortages — is worsening the situation by creating sudden spikes in demand that local logistics networks cannot immediately absorb. "Stockpiling can create an artificial crisis," Singh said, explaining that unexpected surges in demand overwhelm distribution plans and lead to localized shortages at retail pumps even though overall stocks remain available.
Singh urged motorists to remain calm and purchase only what they normally require to allow distributors and retailers to manage deliveries effectively. He pointed out that when customers buy fuel in irregular volumes, it complicates delivery scheduling and increases the likelihood of temporary outages at individual service stations while they await their next consignment.
The FFRA also highlighted the wider risks of panic buying, noting that inconsistent supply at retail outlets can threaten essential services that depend on regular fuel access for critical operations. The association specifically warned that disruptions could affect emergency response, health services and public transport — sectors that rely on steady fuel supplies to operate without interruption.
In addition to stressing responsible consumer behaviour, the FFRA issued a safety warning about storing fuel at home. The association said keeping petrol or diesel in household containers creates a significant fire and explosion risk and urged against any attempts to hoard fuel in residential settings. Retailers and safety authorities have repeatedly cautioned that improvised storage is hazardous and complicates emergency responses.
Customers were encouraged to maintain their normal purchasing habits to support smooth supply management and prevent artificial shortages from developing. The FFRA said retailers are coordinating with suppliers to restore any temporarily affected outlets as soon as deliveries arrive and that the public should expect routine resupply action over the coming days.
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