Wholesale prices for diesel, gasoholes, and LPG increased by up to 27.7% within a single week according to Petroperú and Repsol pricing data. Consumers in Lima and Callao report substantial variations in retail prices, with LPG cylinders previously costing around 50 soles in select distributors in Chorrillos now reaching upwards of 110 soles elsewhere. This doubling or even tripling of prices has incited lengthy lines, with some motorists reportedly waiting up to 12 hours to secure LPG supply, often arriving the previous evening to guarantee service.
The government has increased natural gas dispatches from 70 to 80 million cubic feet per day and began restoring supply to 320 new industries under emergency measures to mitigate production halts. Officials have assured that fuel stocks, including premium and regular gasoline as well as diesel, will be maintained through the following week, with LPG reserves adequate until March 16. Additionally, the restoration of local gas production by Pluspetrol is expected to normalize household natural gas distribution in Lima and Callao by March 14.
Despite government reassurances, widespread consumer apprehension persists, driving over-purchasing behaviors and further straining available resources. The persistent fuel scarcity, escalating costs, and rationing have resulted in operational challenges for transporters and small businesses reliant on motor vehicles, with the increased expenditure on fuel significantly reducing income margins. This sustained energy shortage will likely influence demand patterns and inflationary pressures in Peru’s energy and consumer markets in the short term.
This article was curated and published as part of our South American energy market coverage.
