October 12, Colombo (LNW): Energy Minister Anura Karunathilake has sought to reassure the public that Sri Lanka is not facing an imminent fuel shortage, warning that rumours circulating on social media could trigger unnecessary panic buying and place additional pressure on distribution networks.
Speaking to reporters in Colombo, the Minister urged motorists and other consumers to purchase fuel according to their immediate needs rather than build up private stocks. He cautioned that excessive buying could create artificial shortages, even when sufficient supplies were available to meet normal demand.
Karunathilake acknowledged that fuel distribution had experienced some disruption earlier in the week but said the situation was gradually returning to normal, with several companies having resumed deliveries to the market. He added that the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CEYPETCO) was prepared to maintain supplies and minimise the risk of further interruptions.
Addressing concerns over fuel pricing, the Minister said private distributors were permitted to conduct their businesses and determine their prices, while the state-owned CEYPETCO would continue seeking to provide fuel at affordable rates to protect consumers from excessive costs.
He made the remarks after attending the 37th Annual General Meeting of the Container Transport Owners’ Association in Colombo as chief guest, where he also outlined the government’s approach to supporting businesses and investors.
The Minister said the administration aimed to establish a transparent and equitable environment in which businesses could operate and expand. He emphasised that industries such as transport and logistics played a vital role in economic activity, facilitating the movement of goods and supporting trade across the country.
Karunathilake also highlighted the contribution businesses make to government revenue, which helps finance essential public services, including education, healthcare and social welfare programmes.
Meanwhile, representatives of the container transport industry welcomed what they described as improved access to the Minister and a more direct approach to resolving sector-related concerns.
One association representative said industry stakeholders had previously needed to resort to strikes and other trade union action to secure meetings with ministers and draw attention to unresolved problems. Under the present administration, the representative claimed, discussions had become more accessible and grievances were being addressed more quickly, with the Minister available to industry representatives even through direct telephone contact.
The Minister’s assurances come amid concerns over fuel availability and pricing, with the government urging consumers to rely on credible information and avoid behaviour that could place unnecessary strain on the supply chain.
