DILI, 06 March 2026 (TATOLI) – Fuel importer Esperança Timor Oan (ETO) has assured the public that Timor-Leste has sufficient fuel reserves to supply public and private transport for the next four months, despite rising global oil prices linked to escalating tensions in the Middle East.
The reassurance comes after international media reported an increase in oil prices on Monday following heightened tensions in the region, triggered by attacks launched by the United States and Israel against Iran.
ETO Chief Executive Officer Nilton Gusmão said the conflict could have significant global implications for the oil industry, as many refineries rely on crude supplies from the Middle East. However, he stressed that fuel supply to Timor-Leste remains stable and prices have not increased.
“We all know there are conflicts in the Middle East, but our stock is sufficient,” Gusmão said. “Last Sunday I went to Singapore and requested priority shipment of fuel to Timor-Leste. On March 9, we expect a new cargo that will guarantee supply for the next four months.”
Gusmão called on the public to remain calm, saying the company continues to coordinate closely with its suppliers to ensure uninterrupted deliveries. “I believe there is always a solution and there is no reason to panic,” he said.
“We remain in contact with our suppliers to ensure fuel arrives in our country and that activities continue normally. I ask the public to stay calm and not listen to speculation. As an importer, I guarantee that for the next four months we will not face any problems,” he stressed.
Meanwhile, the President of the National Petroleum Authority, Gualdino da Silva, said the fuel regulator has been in continuous communication with importing companies to ensure adequate stock levels and timely deliveries.
“Timor-Leste is not immune to the possible consequences of the conflict in the Middle East, but we continue to work closely with our importing companies to ensure fuel supply,” he said.
Da Silva added that countries such as India, Indonesia and Singapore are among the main suppliers of fuel to Timor-Leste.
Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources Francisco Monteiro said the Middle East conflict has not yet had a direct impact on Timor-Leste, but warned that rising global oil and gas prices could affect the world economy in the coming months.
“This conflict will certainly affect global oil and gas prices,” Monteiro said. “So far we have not felt a significant impact, but in the coming months we may begin to experience the consequences.”
According to the minister, the government, in collaboration with Timor GAP, has already considered intervention measures to mitigate potential impacts from the conflict.
Journalist: Arminda Fonseca
Editor: Maria Auxiliadora
Translation: Camilio de Sousa
