Consider Crude Imports from Various Countries, Bahlil: Now Don't Be Selective

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

JAKARTA - Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) Bahlil Lahadalia revealed that the government is opening up opportunities to import fuel from various countries. According to him, at present the government is only focusing on the availability of national energy supply in the midst of global uncertainty.

"If it becomes like this, I will let you know. But now we are in this condition, we always open options from any country. Because today the government must guarantee the availability of fuel. So don't choose now. We are from any country, the important thing is there," Bahlil told the media, Monday, April 6.

He added that to obtain fuel supplies, Indonesia must also compete with other countries. Although the tender process is underway, the availability of goods is not fully guaranteed. On the other hand, many sellers or traders have the potential to divert supplies to countries that dare to bid at higher prices.

"We still have to compete with other countries. Imagine now that people have just tendered the goods, but when someone else buys at a higher price, that person or trader or company that sells it can potentially sell to the person who bids higher," said Bahlil.

To ensure that supplies remain secure, continued Bahlil, the government has also stocked alternative sources of imports.

He emphasized that the country prioritizes the availability of fuel without having to limit the choice of the country of origin of the supply.

"So we are now making several alternatives, the important thing for us is for the government to ensure that fuel in Indonesia remains available," said Bahlil.