Indonesia to Restrict Subsidised Pertalite Fuel Purchases for Wealthier Groups
Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa and Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia are designing restrictions on the use of subsidised fuel such as RON 90 or Pertalite. The planned restrictions will apply to certain groups, namely the ninth and tenth deciles.
Purbaya explained that restrictions on Pertalite fuel subsidies are likely to be implemented for the ninth and tenth decile groups. “We discussed the possible implementation of Pertalite subsidy restrictions for the upper levels, perhaps deciles 9 and 10, so that a few months later we can reduce them gradually,” Purbaya said when met at the Ministry of Finance office, as quoted on Wednesday (12/8/2026).
For context, decile 9 represents the upper-middle class group and decile 10 is the upper class group. “We are studying the system. I have also seen that Pertamina’s system is quite good, so it is ready to be implemented,” Purbaya added.
Unfortunately, Purbaya has not yet detailed when the restrictions on Pertalite users for certain deciles will be implemented. What is clear is that the government is preparing the system.
Two-Wheeled Vehicles Not Restricted
Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia added that the plan to restrict Pertalite use for certain deciles is part of the government’s effort to distribute subsidised fuel on target.
“As we all know, some subsidies are not on target. Why should we subsidise the rich, for example with Pertalite? Decile 9 and decile 10 still receive subsidies. This is what we are starting to discuss, the system and everything, so that the hundreds of trillions in subsidies are truly given to our brothers and sisters who are entitled to receive them,”
“And this is in line with what the President has directed. Therefore, we held a coordination meeting of ministers,” Bahlil said at the same location, as quoted on Wednesday (12/8/2026).
Bahlil added that motorcycle users will still be allowed to buy Pertalite fuel as usual. The subsidised fuel restrictions actually target types of vehicles deemed unworthy of receiving them, such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz, which are categorised as luxury vehicles.
“No, motorcycles are not restricted. That means there is no change for motorcycles. Be careful not to make that your headline, be careful, thank you. So, regarding the restrictions, it will concern certain types of vehicles. Don’t use a BMW or a Mercedes and still use subsidised fuel. That is what the Minister meant earlier,” he said.