Fuel Consumption Surges During Eid, Exceeding Projections: Panic Buying Effect?

The Oil and Gas Downstream Regulatory Body (BPH Migas) recorded that consumption of gasoline-type fuel oil (BBM) exceeded initial projections during the Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijri holiday period. The realised increase in gasoline consumption reached 15%, higher than the initial estimate.

Chair of the National Post for the Energy and Mineral Resources Sector RAFI 2026, Erika Retnowati, explained that the surge in consumption was mainly not triggered by panic buying among the public. She stated that the primary factor behind the high fuel uptake was the extended holiday period, which boosted tourism mobility in addition to homecoming activities.

“There is (panic buying) but not much, only in a few areas. However, the number of people going home this time is extraordinary, and the holiday period is long. So, besides going home, many people are also travelling, which naturally increases fuel consumption,” Erika clarified during a press conference at the BPH Migas office in Jakarta on Tuesday (31/3/2026).

Erika assured that the high consumption was matched by secure stock resilience throughout the post period. The average gasoline stock resilience was above 20 days, diesel around 18 days, Pertamina Dex up to 40 days, avtur 30 days, and LPG around 11.6 days.

Regarding circulating issues about restrictions on subsidised fuel purchase volumes that had sparked public concern, BPH Migas Head Wahyudi Anas emphasised that there have been no changes to field regulations to date. All transactions at fuel stations are still running as usual.

“As of now, fuel purchases are normal, both subsidised and state-compensated, including other general fuel types; there are no restrictions or adjustments. So, just be patient because everything will be measured and determined by the government,” Wahyudi stressed on the same occasion, Tuesday (31/3/2026).

BPH Migas recorded that the most significant daily consumption increase occurred in gasoline by 15% and avtur by 7.2%, while gasoil (diesel) dropped 18% compared to normal conditions.

The peak gasoline distribution during the homecoming flow occurred on 19 March with a 37% increase, and the return flow on 25 March with a 20% increase. This smooth distribution was supported by the readiness of 125 fuel terminals, 7,885 fuel stations, 72 mobile fuel units, and active participation from private retail businesses.