Reliance Industries and Nayara Energy have restricted petrol and diesel sales at some outlets as rising global crude prices put pressure on fuel retailers’ margins, according to a report.
Global crude prices have climbed to around $107 a barrel, while domestic petrol and diesel prices have remained unchanged since May. The widening gap between international costs and retail prices has increased pressure on private fuel retailers.
Nayara Energy has reportedly capped diesel purchases at 200 litres and petrol purchases at 30 litres at its fuel stations. Reliance BP Mobility has also introduced diesel restrictions at some outlets. The companies said the measures are aimed at managing demand and ensuring equitable fuel availability.
Global fuel prices have risen amid supply disruptions linked to the West Asia conflict and the Russia-Ukraine war. Export restrictions and tighter global supplies have further complicated the situation for refiners.
Private retailers were already selling fuel below cost. ICRA estimated losses of around ₹5 per litre on petrol and ₹23 per litre on diesel as of September 9. Rising crude prices could increase the pressure further.
Bulk buying has also emerged as a concern, with some outlets reportedly seeing customers purchase large quantities for resale to industrial and other bulk users.
Customers affected by restrictions at private fuel stations may increasingly turn to state-owned retailers such as Indian Oil, BPCL and HPCL, which together account for around 90% of India’s retail fuel sales.
The situation is also affecting transport operators, with some truckers reporting more frequent refuelling stops as diesel availability at certain private outlets becomes restricted.
