Sudan oil minister says fuel reserves stable despite Middle East conflict

March 10, 2026 (KHARTOUM) – Sudan’s energy minister said on Tuesday that the country holds petroleum reserves sufficient for several weeks and that the conflict in the Middle East is affecting fuel prices rather than supply availability.

The ongoing war between the United States and Israel against Iran has cast a shadow over global energy markets, sparking fears of direct repercussions for Sudan, which relies heavily on imports to meet domestic demand.

Energy and Oil Minister Mutasim Ibrahim told a press conference that Sudan has a 16-day reserve of gasoline, 21 days of diesel, and 17 days of aviation fuel. He noted that four tankers carrying 155,000 tonnes of gasoline and two diesel tankers have arrived at the port.

The minister described the supply situation as reassuring, explaining that most imports do not originate in the Gulf but arrive via the Red Sea, the Mediterranean, and the Black Sea. He added that additional tankers currently at sea further bolster supply stability despite regional challenges.

Ibrahim stated that while the Middle East conflict impacts fuel costs, it does not threaten the physical availability of petroleum products. He emphasized that the state must maintain control over prices for the strategic commodity.

The remarks follow reports of panic buying in Khartoum and other states amid fears of fuel shortages. Some regions, including River Nile State, have already moved to increase prices.

The minister attributed queues at filling stations to station owners withholding sales in anticipation of price hikes rather than an actual shortage. He assured citizens that supplies are secured until April, with further shipments scheduled through October.