Sri Lanka Reintroduces QR Code Fuel System to Manage Energy Supplies Amid Global Crisis

Colombo, The Gulf Observer: President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has announced the reintroduction of the QR code-based fuel distribution system as a precautionary measure to manage limited energy supplies caused by ongoing disruptions in global markets due to the Middle East conflict.

Speaking at a special media briefing at the Presidential Secretariat, the President said the system is aimed at ensuring the fair and efficient distribution of fuel while safeguarding economic stability and minimizing disruption to daily life.

He acknowledged growing public concern amid global uncertainty, noting that Sri Lanka’s recent economic challenges have heightened anxieties about access to fuel and essential goods. “The concerns of the people are understandable,” he said, adding that the Government remains focused on maintaining normalcy and protecting livelihoods.

President Dissanayake подчеркнул that Sri Lanka will maintain neutrality in the ongoing conflict and will take all decisions in line with safeguarding national interests and international relations.

He explained that the current situation stems from disruptions in the global energy supply chain, including attacks on oil facilities and shipping routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, which have impacted fuel production and distribution worldwide.

The President revealed that two crude oil shipments totaling nearly 90,000 metric tonnes have been delayed, along with at least one private-sector shipment, resulting in a temporary supply shortfall.

To address the situation, the Government has initiated emergency tenders and engaged with friendly countries to secure additional fuel supplies. The QR code system, he said, has been introduced to manage existing stocks until regular supply schedules are restored.

Nearly five million QR codes have already been registered, with remaining technical issues being resolved. The system is being implemented directly at fuel distribution points with the assistance of local technology firms.

President Dissanayake подчеркнул that while the system may present challenges, it is essential to ensure equitable access to fuel. He assured that priority arrangements have been made to protect essential services, including healthcare, ports, and airports, with emergency fuel reserves secured.

Special allocations are also being provided to key sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, industry, and food distribution. Additional fuel will be supplied to farmers for cultivation and harvesting, while fishing vessels—both large and small—will receive dedicated provisions.

To ease pressure on national supplies, exporters and the tourism sector have been temporarily permitted to import fuel using US dollars. Around 30 exporters have already registered under this scheme, with distribution through private storage facilities set to begin.

The President further assured that there will be no shortage of gas or coal, as additional imports have been secured and urgent tenders issued to maintain uninterrupted electricity generation.

As part of broader conservation efforts, all ministries have been instructed to reduce fuel consumption by at least 25 percent. Wednesdays have been declared a holiday for government offices, alongside the introduction of work-from-home arrangements where feasible.

An Economic Monitoring Committee has been tasked with continuously reviewing the situation, while a separate committee will assess the impact on the public and recommend relief measures if necessary.

President Dissanayake said the Government is prioritizing four key areas—energy supply, public service operations, essential goods distribution, and support for vulnerable groups—to ensure stability during the crisis.

“We cannot overcome this situation alone. We need the cooperation of public servants, the private sector, the media, and the public,” he said, expressing confidence that the country will successfully navigate the challenges.