Bahlil: Indonesia Secures Alternative Oil and LPG Imports Outside the Middle East
Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) Bahlil Lahadalia has confirmed that the government will not adjust subsidised fuel prices. This was stated by Bahlil during a press conference on the government’s policies in response to the global geopolitical situation, held virtually from Seoul, South Korea, on Tuesday (31/3/2026).
“Regarding adjustments to prices for non-subsidised fuel, upon our return to Jakarta, we will discuss it while considering the existing dynamics. Insya Allah, if there is indeed an adjustment, it is hoped that it will not be significant. However, the timing and magnitude will be discussed in the next phase,” said Bahlil.
Bahlil conveyed that the government is endeavouring to maintain the national supply of fuel and LPG. He emphasised that the Middle East is a source of crude oil supply for Indonesia, but finished fuel products do not entirely come from that region. Meanwhile, Indonesia’s dependence on supplies from that area for LPG is around 20%.
“When tensions occur in the Middle East, the government, under the direction of the President, seeks other supply sources to replace those from the Middle East. Alhamdulillah, we have obtained them. So insya Allah, there is no need for doubt anymore; we have secured replacements for supplies from the Middle East,” Bahlil continued.
Bahlil stated that Indonesia has inaugurated a national strategic project to increase Pertamina’s refinery capacity, namely the Refinery Development Master Plan (RDMP) in January 2026. This programme is said to be capable of producing 5.6 million kilolitres of petrol and around 4.5 million kilolitres of diesel.
“This means that in the future, the largest imports will be crude oil, while fuel with RON 90, 93, 95, and 98 will be partly produced domestically and partly imported from Southeast Asian countries,” said Bahlil.
Bahlil added that the government is also seeking alternative LPG supplies from outside the Middle East. He mentioned that these efforts are focused on several countries, particularly the United States (US).
“So, in terms of supply, insya Allah, please pray that it is clear, with no problems. Regarding prices, we know the fluctuations continue for non-subsidised fuel. Give us time to resolve it properly, wisely, and in accordance with reasonable conditions,” said Bahlil.