Summary of "BBM SPBU SWASTA KOSONG, SALAH SIAPA. ?"

Fuel Scarcity at Private Gas Stations in Indonesia: Causes, Impacts, and Responses

The video discusses the ongoing scarcity of non-subsidized fuel (BBM) at private gas stations in Indonesia, analyzing the causes, impacts, and government responses. Despite a 10% increase in fuel import quotas for private gas stations in 2025, shortages persist, largely due to unexpected demand spikes triggered by operational issues at Pertamina, the state-owned fuel company holding about 92.5% of the market share.

Key Points

Demand Surge and Business Risks

Approximately 1.4 million consumers shifted suddenly from subsidized to non-subsidized fuel, overwhelming private gas stations.
Private stations were unable to anticipate or fully prepare for this surge.
Recent policy changes, such as shortening import permit durations from one year to six months, have increased operational unpredictability.
These factors reflect inherent business uncertainties in the fuel sector.

Competition and Market Dynamics

The fuel sector balances public good considerations with competitive market principles.
Private companies generally provide better service and product quality.
Pertamina’s dominant market share and operational missteps, including quality control issues, have shaken public trust.
This has pushed consumers toward private stations, which face difficulties due to quota limits and supply disruptions.

Government Policies and Coordination

Fuel imports are regulated through a commodity balance sheet system mandated by Presidential Decree 61/2024.
Quotas are allocated to Pertamina and private firms accordingly.
Currently, private entities must purchase fuel through Pertamina using Pertamina’s remaining import quota as a short-term solution.
This arrangement is temporary until the end of 2025, after which normal quota allocations will resume.

Monopoly Concerns

Pertamina controls over 90% of the market, raising concerns about potential monopolistic practices.
The Indonesia Competition Commission (KPPU) is investigating these concerns.
Government officials argue that the current import quota system and temporary cooperation are necessary to ensure energy security and prevent supply chaos.
They emphasize that these measures are not intended to establish a monopoly.

Quality and Pricing Issues

Private firms have requested to import “pure” fuel without additives to maintain brand differentiation.
Pertamina has accommodated this request.
Pricing remains regulated and transparent.
Pertamina reportedly does not profit from the current arrangements but only covers costs.
Public trust remains fragile due to earlier quality and supply disruptions.

Energy Security and Structural Challenges

Indonesia has a deep structural dependence on fuel imports due to insufficient domestic production and lifting.
Despite efforts to increase renewable energy and promote electric vehicles, fossil fuel demand continues to rise.
This reveals gaps in energy and automotive policies.
The lack of a comprehensive national oil and gas supply plan (similar to the electricity sector’s RUPTL) contributes to supply instability.

Recommendations and Future Outlook

Experts urge the government to improve coordination and implement more flexible, anticipatory quota management.
Development of a national oil and gas general plan is recommended to prevent future shortages.
Healthy competition is emphasized to foster innovation and service quality.
Long-term restrictions that could stifle private sector growth should be avoided.
Collaboration in refinery development and supply chain management is suggested, with caution to avoid cartel-like behavior.