Arabic version: أستراليا تلغي ست شحنات وقود بسبب مشاكل سلسلة التوريد
According to The Guardian,
Six fuel ships bound for Australia have been cancelled or deferred, according to Energy Minister Chris Bowen. The cancellations involve vessels from Malaysia, Singapore, and South Korea that were expected to arrive next month. Bowen emphasized that the federal government is actively working to replace these ships, with some already substituted.
The cancellations come as Bowen acknowledged that the flow of oil to Asian refineries has slowed, creating an uncertain environment. He stated, “We’re in an uncertain environment, so that’s why we’re doing … all the preparatory work.” Australia typically receives about 80 shipments of oil each month, predominantly from Asia. Recent reports indicated record amounts of US fuel being exported to Australia amidst ongoing supply chain disruptions.
Bowen noted that fuel supplies within Australia are currently slightly higher than before the crisis, with 38 days of petrol supply and 30 days of diesel and jet fuel. However, he warned that the weeks ahead could pose challenges as disruptions are expected for shipments arriving in late April and May. Analysts have raised concerns that major producers in Asia may prioritize domestic fuel needs over exports to Australia.
Despite the situation, Bowen ruled out invoking fuel rationing laws, which have not been used in decades. He reassured Australians that they should purchase fuel as needed but advised against excessive buying. Bowen also encouraged fuel conservation measures, such as working from home when possible, following recommendations from the International Energy Agency.
In response to the ongoing crisis, the government has released an additional 519 million litres of petrol and diesel from reserves, targeting regional areas. Meanwhile, calls for increased domestic oil production have emerged, with the new Nationals leader advocating for oil drilling in the Great Australian Bight to reduce reliance on unstable international markets.
