Government is investigating service stations and fuel wholesalers accused of withholding supply ahead of the latest fuel price increase, following reports that several outlets stopped selling fuel on Tuesday, 31 March.
The shortages were recorded a day before the new fuel prices came into effect on 1 April 2026, with petrol increasing by N$2.50 per litre and diesel by N$4.00 per litre.
The Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy said it will take action where evidence of supply manipulation is found.
“Should formal investigations uncover that the conduct of certain players created artificial shortages and undermined national fuel availability and security, appropriate punitive action will be taken,” the Ministry said.
Authorities said the alleged withholding of fuel on 31 March, in anticipation of higher prices, is a direct threat to supply stability.
“The deliberate withholding of oil supplies in anticipation of capitalising on higher prices should be immediately ceased,” the Ministry said.
Fuel wholesalers have been instructed to deliver all outstanding orders to compliant retailers, while retailers have been warned against restricting access to consumers.
“All licensed fuel retailers must serve fuel consumers indiscriminately without placing any unlawful limitations on volumes dispensed in anticipation of capitalising on higher prices,” the directive states.
Government said any practice of withholding fuel on 31 March and releasing it after the price adjustment to maximise profits undermines national fuel security.
“Any unwarranted practice where oil supply is withheld today (31 March 2026)… and released tomorrow (01 April 2026) for the sole purpose of maximising profit undermines the objective of ensuring the security of fuel supply in Namibia and should be stopped immediately,” the Ministry said.
Fuel wholesalers have also been ordered to provide written justification for any supply disruptions, supported by verifiable stock and logistics data.
The investigation comes as authorities tighten oversight of the fuel sector, following reports of supply disruptions linked to the price adjustment, with a focus on preventing similar incidents going forward.
