Fuel Overview
In St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the supply of fuel, such as gasoline, diesel, Jet A1, Avgas, and other petroleum products, is managed through a mix of government-regulated procedures and the involvement of private entities. Storage facilities, crucial for ensuring a dependable fuel supply, are located near major ports, and are operated by private fuel suppliers in the country.
Trinidad and Tobago and Venezuela are the primary sources of fuel imports, regulated by the government to maintain supply consistency and stable prices. Buckeye, a company operating petroleum product pipelines in the United States, also operates marine terminals in the Caribbean region. These terminals play a crucial role in the importing, storing, and distributing of petroleum products throughout the Caribbean islands.
The two private companies that import and distribute fuel in St. Vincent and the Grenadines are Sol Eastern Caribbean Limited, a subsidiary of SOL Group, and RUBIS Caribbean. There are three retail distribution methods used: the dealer-owned, dealer-operated (DODO), the company-owned, dealer-operated (CODO), and the company-owned, company-operated (COCO) systems. Challenges in the fuel supply chain in SVG include susceptibility to global oil prices and fuel transportation disruption due to natural disasters.
For more information on government and fuel provider contact details, please see the following links: 4.7 Fuel Providers Contact List
Information may also be found at: http://www.mytravelcost.com/petrol-prices/ which is updated monthly.
Fuel Pricing
Fuel pricing in St. Vincent and the Grenadines is determined by a complex combination of global market conditions, Cost, Insurance and Freight (C.I.F) value, all customs duties and charges, distribution costs, and government policies aimed at consumer protection, revenue generation and economic stability. The Ministry of Foreign Trade has established a price control order to oversee and define the pricing methodology.
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Fuel Prices per Litre as of: 15 April 2024 (local currency and USD - $) |
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Petrol |
EC$16.73/ US$ 6.19 |
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Diesel |
EC$14.73/ US$ 5.45 |
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Low Sulphur Diesel |
EC$14.79(US$ 5.47) |
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Paraffin |
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Jet A-1 |
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Seasonal Variations
Unfavorable weather conditions or shipping delays could affect the timely delivery of fuel to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, potentially causing temporary shortages or interruptions. To manage these seasonal variations and maintain a steady fuel supply, importers, distributors, and government authorities typically monitor and prepare for fluctuations in demand and possible supply chain disruptions. This proactive approach helps manage risks and maintain consistent fuel availability all year round despite seasonal challenges.
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Seasonal Variations |
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|---|---|
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Are there national priorities in the availability of fuel? (i.e. are there restrictions or priorities for the provision of fuel such as to the military?) |
No |
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Is there a rationing system? |
No |
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Is fuel to lower income / vulnerable groups subsidized? |
No |
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Can the local industry expand fuel supply to meet humanitarian needs? |
Yes |
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Is it possible for a humanitarian organization to directly contract a reputable supplier / distributor to provide its fuel needs? |
Yes However, most stations use credit lines, which is different from the principle used by most Humanitarian organizations. Humanitarian organizations may need to sign contracts with the office in Barbados for large-scale operations that might span across several Caribbean Islands. |
Fuel Transportation
Imported fuel is transported through pipelines to the Fuel farms. Retail tank wagons fill up at the depot and transport to the stations within St. Vincent. Fuel is sold to consumers through a network of retail gas stations strategically located to ensure widespread accessibility. The current capacity can meet local needs and increased demand.
Standards, Quality and Testing
Fuel distributors send jet fuel samples to Miami and Antigua for testing. Sales only begin after receiving satisfactory results. For gasoline, distributors conduct visual inspections and water detection tests before selling the product. Note that there is no national fuel testing laboratory in SVG.
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Industry Control Measures |
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|---|---|
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Do tanks have adequate protection against water mixing with the fuel? |
Yes |
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Are there filters in the system which monitor where fuel is loaded into aircraft? |
Yes |
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Is there adequate epoxy coating of tanks on trucks? |
Yes |
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Is there a presence of suitable firefighting equipment? |
Yes |
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Standards Authority |
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|---|---|
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Is there a national or regional standards authority? |
Yes |
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If yes, please identify the appropriate national and/or regional authority. |
National: St. Vincent and the Grenadines Bureau of Standards Regional: CARICOM Regional Organisation for Standards and Quality (CROSQ) |
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If yes, are the standards adequate/properly enforced? |
Yes |
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Testing Laboratories |
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|---|---|
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Are there national testing laboratories? |
No |
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Fuel Quality Testing Laboratory |
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|---|---|
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Company |
N/A |
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Name |
N/A |
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Address |
N/A |
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Telephone and Fax |
N/A |
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Contact |
N/A |
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Standards Used |
N/A |
Disclaimer: Inclusion of company information in the LCA does not imply any business relationship between the supplier and WFP / Logistics Cluster, and is used solely as a determinant of services, and capacities.
Please note: WFP / Logistics Cluster maintain complete impartiality and are not in a position to endorse, comment on any company's suitability as a reputable service provider.
