Namibia has temporarily allowed global energy trader Vitol Group to resume supplying fuel to local fuel retailer Nasan Energies, as the government moves to strengthen fuel supplies following recent disruptions in the global energy market.

The decision, announced in a government notice dated July 3 by Energy Minister Modestus Amutse, suspends an earlier competition ruling that barred Nasan Energies from sourcing fuel from Vitol for five years.

The restriction was introduced after Nasan Energies acquired a network of fuel stations from Vitol, with regulators seeking to promote competition in the country’s fuel retail market.

However, the government said recent supply challenges linked to the conflict between the United States and Iran made it necessary to relax the conditions. Namibia had earlier entered into an emergency arrangement with Vitol to help secure fuel supplies and reduce the risk of shortages.

With the suspension now in effect, Nasan Energies can once again buy fuel from Vitol as authorities work to maintain a stable supply of petroleum products across the country.

The temporary measure is expected to improve fuel availability while the government continues efforts to safeguard the country’s energy security.