Government Guarantees Pertalite Fuel Price Freeze Through End of First Quarter 2026
Jakarta — The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), has guaranteed that Pertalite fuel prices (RON 90) will not increase until the end of the first quarter of 2026.
Deputy Energy Minister Yuliot Tanjung stated that the policy follows the directive of Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia, who reaffirmed the government’s commitment to maintaining subsidised fuel prices.
“For subsidised fuel, especially Pertalite, Minister Bahlil has already confirmed there will be no price increases until the end of the first quarter of 2026,” Yuliot said during a press conference launching the National Energy Sector Command Centre for the 2026 Eid al-Fitr holiday period on Thursday, 12 March 2026.
Yuliot noted that international crude oil prices have experienced significant volatility in recent weeks, at one point reaching $116 per barrel before declining. The Energy Ministry will evaluate Pertalite pricing policy after the first quarter ends, considering global oil price developments and the state budget’s available subsidy and energy compensation allocations.
The government has confirmed domestic fuel supplies remain secure ahead of the 2026 Lebaran holiday exodus. Current domestic oil production stands at approximately 610,000 barrels per day. To meet domestic demand, additional supplies are imported and processed at refineries in Balikpapan, Balongan, Cilacap, Plaju, and Dumai before distribution to storage depots and petrol stations.
The government is also expanding fuel storage tank capacity to strengthen national energy supply resilience. Whilst visible reserves cover approximately 23 to 25 days of consumption, the ecosystem-wide reserve actually exceeds 30 days, according to Yuliot.
Certain fuel grades maintain reserves above minimum thresholds. Pertamax (RON 92) stocks reach approximately 29 days, Pertamina Dex covers around 45 days, and aviation fuel (avtur) supplies span approximately 37 days.
The Lebaran exodus is anticipated to involve roughly 143 million people, with approximately 50 per cent (76 million) expected to travel by private vehicle. Yuliot indicated these supplies are sufficient to support public mobility during the holiday period.
The government is implementing various measures to ensure smooth fuel distribution throughout the Lebaran period. “Beyond fuel, the government is also ensuring reliable electricity supply during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr through coordination with PT PLN (Persero), including ensuring primary energy availability and power plant readiness,” Yuliot stated.