Small and independent oil dealers have complained that the proposed new petroleum regulations favours multi-nationals and major oil marketers. Their concerns comes as the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) concludes public participation on the regulations. It has reviewed 10 midstream and downstream petroleum regulations, and developed the Petroleum (Lubricants Facility Construction and Business Licensing) Regulations 2020. Multi-nationals and major marketers enjoy bulk importation and storage, with their widespread franchises allowing them to secure expansion and operational approvals easily. Kenya Independent Petroleum Distributors Association (KIPEDA), Petroleum Outlets Association of Kenya (POAK), and Independent Petroleum Retailers yesterday said punitive fines would kill small businesses.

Source: The Star February 26, 2021 00:56 UTC