Since November 17, 2025, road access to the Varreux oil terminal (Haiti's largest fuel depot, holding 70% of its reserves) – National Route 1, the Batimat road, La Saline, and Route 9 – has been blocked and controlled by heavily armed men, preventing tanker trucks from refueling at the terminal and delivering to service stations where stocks are dwindling daily.

Although no fuel shortage has been reported so far, some unscrupulous service station owners have taken advantage of the situation to raise prices at the pump and fuel rumors of a fuel shortage, leading to the appearance of yellow jerrycans among consumers.

Responding to this situation, the General Directorate of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, in a press release dated Thursday, November 20, 2025, clarified the fuel availability and control measures, stating, "[...] no fuel shortage has been recorded on the national market.' Information gathered from importers and distributors confirms that products are available in sufficient quantities to meet demand.

However, the Ministry has noted some local disruptions attributed to irregular practices that do not comply with current standards. It announces that teams of inspectors will be deployed throughout the country to : conduct spontaneous inspections at service stations and distribution points; ensure compliance with established prices and sales conditions ; and prevent and penalize any speculative or illegal practices.

These operations will be carried out in coordination with the Haitian National Police (PNH) to ensure order and the proper functioning of the supply system.

Should be noted that on Thursday, the Ministry's inspection service already conducted an inspection at more than a dozen service stations in the metropolitan area to verify fuel availability.

SL/ HaitiLibre