Sri Lanka will continue using its QR code-based fuel authorization system for an indefinite period as global fuel supply uncertainty persists due to ongoing tensions in the Middle East, a senior official said on March 16. Authorities also plan to integrate the system with digital payment methods in the future.
The National Fuel Authorization System, commonly known as the QR code system, was originally introduced during a severe economic crisis to regulate fuel distribution and prevent shortages. Officials say the mechanism remains necessary as global energy markets face disruption.
QR Code Registration Official WebSite: fuelpass.gov.lk
A senior official from the state-run Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) told the Daily Mirror that the government intends to maintain the QR code-based rationing system while global fuel supplies remain unstable.
The official said the CPC plans to expand the system by linking it to a digital payment platform. This would allow fuel purchases to be tracked and processed electronically, improving monitoring and control over distribution.
He noted that the quantity of fuel allocated under the system may change depending on the evolving global situation. Authorities will adjust limits based on supply availability and market conditions.
Despite global concerns, the official said Sri Lanka currently has sufficient fuel supplies secured for the next two months. However, uncertainty remains over future deliveries due to disruptions affecting global shipping routes.
One major concern is the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key maritime route through which a large portion of the world’s oil shipments pass. The blockage has raised fears about delays in tanker movements and fuel deliveries.
Sri Lanka relies heavily on imported fossil fuels for both transportation and electricity generation. The country’s monthly fuel consumption often exceeds 50,000 tonnes for major petroleum products.
To maintain supply stability, Sri Lanka typically keeps around a month’s worth of fuel reserves. Current stock levels include roughly 33 days of diesel and about 27 days of petrol.
Officials are also exploring alternative supply arrangements to prevent potential shortages. The CPC official confirmed that India has agreed to provide fuel to Sri Lanka through a government-to-government agreement if necessary.
China has also indicated it is prepared to assist Sri Lanka with fuel supplies in the event of an emergency.
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Vijitha Herath recently held discussions with Russian Ambassador Levan S. Dzhagaryan regarding the possibility of purchasing fuel from Russian vessels currently in the region.
The Sri Lankan government has already submitted a formal request regarding the potential purchase. According to the Russian Embassy in Colombo, the request has been forwarded to authorities in Moscow for further consideration.
Global oil markets are currently facing severe disruption as the ongoing conflict involving Iran affects shipping routes in the Persian Gulf.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) has warned that the situation could represent the largest supply disruption in modern history. The agency said Iran’s effective blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has prevented tankers from transporting millions of barrels of crude oil each day.
The IEA also noted that the current supply shock could surpass previous global oil crises, including the disruptions caused by the 1973 Yom Kippur War and the 2022 outbreak of war in Ukraine.
As uncertainty continues to affect global fuel markets, Sri Lankan authorities say the QR code rationing system will remain an important tool to manage supply and maintain stability in domestic fuel distribution.
English (United States) ·