Government to Restrict Subsidised Pertalite Fuel for Wealthiest Groups

The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, is designing a policy to restrict the purchase of subsidised Pertalite fuel (RON 90) for certain groups. The restriction will target the upper economic classes, specifically desil 9 (upper-middle class) and desil 10 (upper class).

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa stated that the government is studying the implementation system and noted that Pertamina’s system is already quite robust and ready to support the policy. The plan is to implement the restriction gradually.

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia added that the policy aims to ensure subsidies, which amount to hundreds of trillions of rupiah, are received by those who are truly entitled. He confirmed that motorcycles will not be subject to the restriction and will continue to be allowed to purchase Pertalite as usual. The restriction is specifically aimed at luxury vehicles, such as BMWs and Mercedes-Benz, which are considered inappropriate recipients of subsidised fuel.