Planning To Reduce Fuel Imports From Singapore, Indonesia Prepares Large Ports

Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia (Photo: Antara)

JAKARTA - Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) Bahlil Lahadalia revealed the government's plan to reduce imports of fuel oil (BBM) from Singapore to other countries. Bahlil said this was because the price of fuel from the White Lion country was not much different from the price of fuel from the Middle East and the United States.

"We are starting to think that we will import oil from other countries, not from that country (Singapore)," Bahlil told the media crew, Friday, May 9.

Whereas so far, most of Indonesia's fuel imports come from Singapore, amounting to 54 to 59 percent. For this reason, Bahlil ensured that fuel imports would be carried out from the middle east and imports from Singapore would be reduced.

"That's one of the reasons we built a bigger one, so that one transport (BBM). So the port is enlarged, the depth must also be maintained," said Bahlil.

Bahlil further explained that the reduction in fuel imports from Singapore was carried out taking into account geopolitical and geoeconomic issues. Bahlil assessed that Indonesia needs to make a balance, including the matter of importing fuel.

"In fact, it should be cheaper (from Singapore). The period of goods near him makes it more expensive," he explained.

Bahlil continued, the transfer of fuel imports from Singapore would be carried out in stages until the total suspension.

"Further, yes. The current stage may reach 50 to 60 percent, maybe one day it will be zero," said Bahlil.