Private fuel retailers threaten closure of 500 stations over price demands

Three private fuel retailers operating across Sri Lanka have issued a stark ultimatum to the government, threatening to cease operations at approximately 500 fuel stations if their pricing demands are not met. The companies have formally submitted a letter to the Ministry of Energy seeking permission to increase fuel prices, sources said Tuesday. The correspondence, which outlines the companies' financial position and operational constraints, requests an urgent meeting with ministry officials to discuss the matter. The threatened closures would represent a significant reduction in retail fuel availability across the country, potentially affecting consumers and the broader transport sector. The private fuel retailers have framed their request as necessary to maintain viable operations amid what they characterize as unsustainable current pricing structures. The Ministry of Energy has yet to publicly respond to the companies' letter or confirm whether officials will agree to the requested meeting. Industry analysts have warned that large-scale station closures could exacerbate fuel distribution challenges and create supply bottlenecks in regions dependent on private retailers.