Rise in Mixed LPG Drives Up Demand for Elpiji
Pertamina Patra Niaga Central Java-Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY) has refuted circulating rumours of shortages in non-subsidised elpiji cylinders, such as the 12-kilogram size.
Area Manager for Communication and Relations at Pertamina Patra Niaga Central Java-DIY, Taufik Kurniawan, suspects that the information about non-subsidiised elpiji shortages is still related to the intensified enforcement and crackdown on mixing practices.
“Since the police uncovered cases of mixed elpiji where the modus operandi involves injecting subsidised 3-kilogram elpiji into non-subsidised elpiji, demand for non-subsidised elpiji has actually increased by 15 percent in the Central Java-DIY area,” said Taufik on Wednesday, 15 April 2026.
Taufik explained that the prevalence of mixing practices is suspected to be aimed at obtaining cheaper non-subsidised elpiji prices compared to the normal price, thus attracting consumers. However, when these practices are rigorously regulated, it creates the illusion of shortages. “Mixed elpiji is priced lower than the normal determined price.”
Nevertheless, Taufik assured that the current stock of non-subsidised elpiji is fully secure. He advised consumers to purchase non-subsidised elpiji stocks from official agents and depots.
He cited as an example that one group of non-subsidised elpiji users is the Nutrition Fulfilment Service Unit (SPPG), a technical implementing unit under the coordination of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), which is tasked with producing and distributing free nutritious meals (MBG).
Furthermore, Taufik urged SPPG not to buy elpiji suspected of being mixed, which is priced cheaper. He advised SPPG that requires elpiji supplies to contact official agents and depots to ensure smooth supply.
“Our hope is that SPPG, which receives state funding and operates MBG, can use official Pertamina non-subsidised elpiji. Both in 5.5-kilogram, 12-kilogram, up to 50-kilogram packaging,” said Taufik.
He stated that if purchases of non-subsidised elpiji are in large quantities, Pertamina applies special discounts. “This discount is so that the public is not tempted by parties offering cheaper prices compared to the normal market because the quality and safety are not guaranteed,” he said.