Niger Bans Petrol and Diesel Exports to Protect Domestic Fuel Supply
Niger has banned exports of premium petrol and diesel to prioritise domestic supply amid fuel shortages affecting parts of the country, including the capital, Niamey.
The measure was introduced through an order signed on October 12 by Trade and Industry Minister Abdoulaye Seydou and reported by the Nigerien Press Agency on October 17.
Under the directive, domestically produced petrol and diesel must first meet local demand before exports can be considered. The state-owned Nigerien Petroleum Products Company (SONIDEP) and the Zinder Refining Company (SORAZ) may export surplus supplies only with special authorisation from the minister.
Officials from the trade ministry, customs authorities and defence and security forces have been empowered to enforce the restriction.
The decision comes as Niger faces disruptions in fuel distribution, with shortages reported at filling stations in Niamey. Reduced supplies from informal fuel trade with neighbouring Nigeria have added pressure to the country’s domestic market.
Niger’s Zinder refinery, with a reported processing capacity of about 20,000 barrels per day, has traditionally supplied domestic consumers while also serving regional markets.
The export restriction also comes amid wider volatility in global energy markets linked to geopolitical tensions and concerns over petroleum supply disruptions. Several countries have introduced restrictions on fuel exports to protect domestic availability.
The Nigerien government’s order does not specify how long the ban will remain in force. Exports may still be authorised if domestic needs are met and a surplus is available.
