Government keeps Pertalite, Solar and subsidized LPG prices

The government is keeping prices for subsidized fuel and subsidized LPG unchanged even as non-subsidized fuel prices are adjusted. Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia said the policy was taken to preserve public purchasing power amid global economic pressure and swings in world energy prices. Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources spokesperson Dwi Anggia explained that non-subsidized fuels such as Pertamax follow market mechanisms, so prices can change when world oil prices rise. She added that price components are also affected by distribution costs, storage and taxes. Pertamina Patra Niaga earlier adjusted the price of Pertamax and urged consumers to use energy wisely so they do not take subsidy allocations intended for eligible groups.