Australia Lowers Fuel Standards, Inserts 200 Million Liters into Market

Australia responded by temporarily relaxing its fuel-quality standards.

Sulfur levels will be allowed to rise over 60 days, unlocking 100 million liters per month.

Al Jazeera

Ampol agreed to prioritize relieving pressure on regional areas.

This is the third time standards have been adjusted since February 28.

Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has hit Asian refineries supplying over 80% of Australia's fuel.

The IEA characterized the war as causing the largest disruption to oil supply in history.

Production was down by at least 10 million barrels per day.

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India faced hours-long queues outside gas distributors.

Australia saw fuel prices surge despite having its largest reserves in 15 years.

The reserves remained below the IEA recommendation of 90 days.

New Zealand began considering demand-side restrictions to limit vehicle use.

“Australia will relax its fuel quality standards to allow around 200 million litres to be added to the domestic market over the next two months, Australian authorities said Thursday”

BFM

Australia complemented relaxed standards with a financial support package.

The excise tax on gasoline and diesel will be halved for three months.

The government also plans to suspend road tolls for heavy trucks.

Both government and opposition emphasized that Australia had enough fuel.

Supply chain disruptions and regional gaps were driving the crisis.

Boursorama

Raising sulfur levels could have health and environmental repercussions.

The crisis underscored how global geopolitical conflicts cascade into national challenges.