Concerns over fuel contamination prompt calls for independent quality checks

MUSCAT, FEB 20

Following a public outcry regarding the quality of M91 motor fuel dispensed by some fuel stations in the Sultanate of Oman, the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion (MoCIIP) convened a joint meeting with stakeholders aimed at discussing consumer concerns and calling for independent quality checks.

OQ, the integrated global energy group of Oman, acknowledged responsibility for fuel quality and distribution, pledging to investigate complaints, update consumers on fuel quality and damage causes, and share laboratory test results.

However, social media user Fahad al Siyabi, reflecting broader concerns, questioned OQ's dual role as supplier and quality arbiter, advocating for an independent body to ensure objectivity.

Social media user Hafeed al Shahri, echoing a wider sentiment, called for the public disclosure of specific reasons for fuel quality issues, arguing for complete transparency in communication "with both the recipient and the complainant."

MoCIIP, emphasizing adherence to approved fuel standards, mandated OQ to submit quality certificates for each product. A joint complaint resolution mechanism was established, mandating fuel companies to receive complaints through designated channels. These complaints, incorporating relevant details such as the name and location of the fuel station, and batch number, are then relayed to OQ. For its parts, OQ is require to track product quality, review certificates, and re-examine samples in collaboration with MoCIIP and the Consumer Protection Authority (CPA). Failure to comply triggers investigations by a technical team.

While the established mechanism addresses complaint handling, concerns about transparency remain. Many, like Fahad al Siyabi, emphasize the need for an independent body to objectively assess fuel quality and build public trust. Both OQ and MoCIIP are encouraged to provide detailed and timely information, addressing concerns and ensuring consumer confidence.

Some consumers lament that the issue of contaminated motor fuel is a recurrent issue, plaguing motorists every two years and ultimately inflicting unnecessary damage on their vehicles. Garages are inundated with cars suffering engine problems demonstrably linked to the inconsistent quality of motor fuel, they argue.

Consumers recall a similar incident in 2016 that prompted intervention from the Consumer Protection Authority. However, their investigation yielded inconclusive results, blamed on conflicting data on fuel specs and official certifications presented by local refineries. This lack of transparency raises concerns about accountability and effective oversight, they stressed.

To address this persistent problem, a potential solution lies in mandating consistent fuel specs displayed prominently at all petrol stations. This would empower consumers to make informed choices and potentially hold stations accountable for any discrepancies, a motorist added on social media.