Fuel bowser owners warn of withdrawal from distribution if issues remain unresolved

Fuel bowser operators have warned that they could withdraw from fuel distribution from Friday if authorities fail to resolve long-standing concerns over the pricing formula governing their transport operations.

The Ceylon Petroleum Private Bowser Owners’ Association said representatives of two associations linked to fuel bowser operators, together with an association representing fuel station owners, met Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) officials today seeking a solution to the issue.

According to the association, the CPC Chairman has informed them that a final round of discussions will be held on Friday, with changes to the pricing formula expected to be implemented thereafter.

The association said discussions over revising the formula have continued for more than a year, with a proposal previously submitted to the University of Moratuwa following consultations with the CPC and other relevant institutions.

It said an agreement had initially been reached to amend the formula by December 31, 2025, and implement the revised mechanism from January 2026. 

However, the association claimed the matter remains unresolved despite nearly six rounds of discussions this year, including talks in February, March, June and August.

Bowser operators say their operating costs have risen sharply due to higher fuel prices, spare-parts costs and the overall cost of living, with expenses increasing by an estimated 40% to 50%.

The association said the rising costs have made it increasingly difficult for its members to continue operations under the existing arrangement.

Representatives are expected to participate in Friday’s final meeting and await the outcome before deciding their next course of action.

The association warned that if an acceptable solution is not reached, its members, together with the other groups involved in the discussions, would withdraw from fuel distribution from Friday. (Newswire)

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