Vigilance as Pertamax Consumers Potentially Switch to Pertalite, ESDM's Anticipation

The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) is wary of the potential for consumers to shift from non-subsidised Pertamax (RON 92) fuel to subsidised Pertalite after the price of Pertamax increased on 10 June 2026. Ministry spokesperson Dwi Anggia acknowledged that the government realises the rise in non-subsidised fuel prices could drive some people to switch to cheaper products like Pertalite, but added that this risk has been mitigated. “It is also an undeniable fact that there will likely be a significant shift. We have just discussed this with the Pertamina Patra Niaga Bureau,” Anggia stated at the Ministry of ESDM in Jakarta on Thursday (11/6/2026). To anticipate a surge in subsidised fuel consumption, the Ministry will strengthen supervision of the distribution and dispensing of subsidised fuel. One instrument currently in use is a QR Code system for purchasing subsidised fuel. “Anticipation and mitigation are certainly being carried out. For instance, access to subsidised fuel now uses QR codes, even though there may still be many individuals trying to outsmart this. However, the government and the Minister of ESDM have asked Pertamina and related parties to increase supervision on the ground,” she explained. “But most importantly, the growing public awareness is key. Knowing what is their entitlement and what is not, that is more important.” Previously, Pertamina Patra Niaga Corporate Secretary Roberth MV Dumatubun urged the public to use energy wisely and not to take the entitlements of those who deserve subsidies. This was in response to concerns about consumers moving to subsidised fuels like Pertalite. “This call for wise energy use and awareness not to take the rights of subsidy recipients continues to be echoed,” he told CNBC Indonesia on Thursday (11/6/2026). Roberth said the price adjustment for non-subsidised Pertamax fuel was made while still considering purchasing power and the national economy. Meanwhile, subsidised fuel prices have not been adjusted and remain sold according to prevailing regulations. The new non-subsidised fuel prices effective from 10 June 2026 are as follows: Pertamax rose from Rp12,300 per litre to Rp16,250 per litre, and Pertamax Green 95 increased from Rp12,900 per litre to Rp17,000 per litre.