Major fuel retailers cap petrol sales as crude oil prices surge past $107

Two of India's major fuel retailers have imposed sales caps at certain petrol stations as crude oil prices continue their upward trajectory in international markets. Reliance BP and Nayara Energy have limited both petrol and diesel purchases at select outlets, with some stations now restricting petrol sales to 30 liters per customer. The restrictions reflect growing concerns among retailers about supply chain pressures stemming from elevated global crude prices. Brent crude has crossed the $107-per-barrel threshold, adding to inflationary pressures on fuel costs across the subcontinent. While Indian fuel prices remain under government oversight through a pricing mechanism that adjusts rates periodically, retailers have grown cautious about managing inventory and sales volumes in the face of sustained crude price volatility. Industry observers noted that such measures remain localized and have not affected all fuel retailers uniformly. The situation underscores India's continued vulnerability to international energy price shocks, a persistent challenge for policymakers seeking to balance consumer affordability with market realities.