Fuel shortages have forced several gas stations across Guyana to close or ration supplies, as disruptions linked to tensions involving Iran continue to impact global oil availability.
Long lines were reported at stations across Georgetown on Monday, with some outlets temporarily shutting down after running out of gasoline and diesel.
President Irfaan Ali met with fuel importers on April 13, 2026, to address the developing situation and secure additional shipments.
“I met with fuel importers today to address the current fuel shortages,” Ali said in a statement. “I’ve been assured that shipments are expected as early as tonight, with additional supplies already being sourced to meet national demand.”
Ali added that the government is closely monitoring supply levels to maintain stability and prevent prolonged disruptions.
According to the Guyana Energy Agency, gasoline import costs surged by 38.5 percent between February 22 and March 17, 2026, amid volatility in global oil markets linked to the Middle East conflict.
Shipping disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz — a critical corridor that carries about one-fifth of global oil trade — have contributed to supply constraints worldwide.
The government noted that S&P Global described the interruption in crude traffic through the Strait of Hormuz as the largest disruption ever recorded.
Prime Minister Mark Phillips urged the public not to panic buy or hoard fuel, noting that supplies were already beginning to stabilize following a delayed shipment from a major supplier.
Officials confirmed that the delayed cargo has since arrived and is currently being discharged, while additional consignments landed Monday afternoon, with more expected Tuesday and later in the week.
Phillips also warned against unsafe storage practices as residents scramble to secure fuel.
“I remind consumers that petroleum products are highly flammable and must be handled and stored with the greatest care. Storing gasoline in inappropriate containers poses a serious fire risk and significantly increases the potential for injury, loss of life, and damage to property,” he said.
The government also released a schedule outlining incoming fuel shipments.
The state-owned Guyana Oil Company is expecting 9,000 barrels of diesel and 21,000 barrels of gasoline on April 15, with offloading scheduled for Thursday morning.
Meanwhile, SOL Guyana Inc. reported that 3,000 barrels of gasoline and 14,000 barrels of diesel arrived on April 13 at 2:00 p.m., with discharge underway and distribution beginning Monday evening. An additional 12,000 barrels of gasoline and 6,000 barrels of diesel are scheduled to arrive on April 14 at 2:20 p.m.
Authorities say they will continue to monitor the situation and take measures to ensure stable and reliable access to fuel nationwide, as Guyana — like many countries — grapples with the ripple effects of the global oil disruption.
