By Rahim Abdul
The Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA) has suspended the allocation of fuel stocks to SIMSO Oil and Transport Company after discovering that the company hoarded over 200,000 litres of petrol at its depot while its service stations remained dry.
According to a statement released by MERA, the decision follows a regulatory inspection conducted on August 6, 2025, at oil marketing depots in Lilongwe.
The inspection revealed that SIMSO Oil and Transport Company was deliberately withholding large quantities of fuel without offering any valid justification, worsening the current fuel shortage crisis in the country.
MERA expressed concern that SIMSO’s actions directly undermine national efforts to stabilize fuel supply.
“The conduct of SIMSO Oil and Transport Company undermines national efforts to stabilize fuel supply during the ongoing crisis,” reads part of the statement.
The regulator has since ordered the company to immediately release the withheld fuel and distribute it to its service stations.
Furthermore, MERA has directed all fuel importers and oil marketing companies to cease allocations of fuel stocks to SIMSO until further notice.
MERA has called on stakeholders and the general public to continue working together to ensure the stability of fuel availability in Malawi, praising responsible players in the fuel industry for their cooperation and commitment.
