ZAM Appeals for Bulk Fuel Access Amid Operational Challenges
The Zambia Association of Manufacturers (ZAM) has voiced an urgent call for improved fuel access, following measures introduced by the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) to stabilize the country’s fuel supply.
In response to the ERB’s recent November 1 press release, ZAM has commended the board’s commitment to managing price fluctuations and securing fuel availability, recognizing the importance of these measures for national stability.
However, ZAM President Ashu Sagar emphasized the need for additional support specific to the manufacturing sector, which has been significantly affected by limited bulk fuel availability. With persistent power supply interruptions and ongoing load-shedding, manufacturers have increasingly relied on diesel generators to maintain production.
Yet, under the current fuel distribution system, access is limited to retail quantities, creating operational delays, inefficiencies, and elevated costs for industrial users who require substantial fuel volumes to sustain their operations.
“The manufacturing sector is a vital contributor to Zambia’s economic growth, providing jobs, fostering local content, and strengthening our industrial base,” stated Sagar. “Enabling bulk fuel access is essential to ensuring manufacturers can maintain productivity amid these challenges.”
ZAM has called on the ERB to consider establishing mechanisms to allow industrial operators access to fuel in wholesale quantities or, alternatively, to create dedicated bulk fuel supply points for manufacturers.
Such measures, according to ZAM, would enable continuous production, enhance economic resilience, and support the sector’s role in driving growth.
The association has expressed its willingness to collaborate with the ERB and other stakeholders in finding sustainable solutions for Zambia’s industrial fuel needs.
This is in a statement issued by Mr. Ashu Sagar, ZAM president.
