HIGH-LEVEL COMMITTEE ESTABLISHED TO MONITOR FUEL

CAPTION: Minister for Rural & Economic Development Joseph Lelang to chair the committee overseeing government’s efforts in managing fuel issues.

BY NIGEL MADO

A high-level Cabinet committee has been established to coordinate the Papua New Guinea government’s response to the looming fuel crisis triggered by global supply disruptions.

Prime Minister James Marape announced that the committee will be chaired by Minister for Rural & Economic Development Joseph Lelang and will oversee government efforts to manage the situation.

The committee will bring together senior Cabinet members to examine the country’s fuel supply and develop strategies to maintain availability across the economy.

Marape said the decision was taken after Cabinet considered advice regarding the sharp rise in global fuel prices and the potential impact on Papua New Guinea’s fuel imports.

The committee will work closely with key government agencies and fuel importers to monitor supply levels and coordinate policy responses.

According to the Prime Minister, the government is taking proactive steps to avoid disruptions that could affect transport services, industries and households that rely heavily on fuel.

He said the committee’s work would also include assessing financial mechanisms designed to support fuel importers and ensure that consumers are protected from steep price increases.