Egypt launches electronic system to tighten fuel distribution oversight, curb illegal practices

The Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources has developed a detailed framework for an electronic system aimed at tightening oversight of petroleum product distribution and curbing illegal practices, in coordination with the Ministries of Interior and Communications and Information Technology.

The initiative forms part of the state’s efforts to advance digital transformation and strengthen governance of the petroleum product distribution system, particularly to prevent the diversion and smuggling of petroleum products.

According to a ministry statement, the system will rely on collecting and analysing fuel-supply data through electronic vehicle stickers issued by traffic departments affiliated with the Ministry of Interior. This will enable authorities to monitor the petroleum product supply chain, covering the various stages of distribution and handling through to delivery to end consumers.

The system is scheduled to begin its pilot operation in Port Said governorate on Sunday, with the trial period lasting one month. The period will give vehicle owners who have not yet installed the electronic stickers time to regularise their status, while allowing the authorities to complete coverage of all vehicle refuelling stations across the governorate.

The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to meeting citizens’ needs for petroleum products, noting that the system forms part of efforts to deploy modern technological solutions to strengthen governance of their management and distribution.

It stressed that the system will not affect the pricing of petroleum products or the quantities dispensed. Instead, it aims to improve the detection of abnormal consumption patterns and support monitoring and inspection activities, thereby enhancing the efficiency of petroleum product distribution.