The Dutch government will begin releasing part of its strategic oil reserves within the next two to three weeks in a bid to help reduce fuel prices, while retaining its emergency kerosene stock due to ongoing supply constraints in the aviation sector.

The release forms part of a coordinated initiative by the International Energy Agency (IEA), which called on its member countries to make emergency oil stocks available to stabilise global energy markets. Under the agreement, the Netherlands will contribute about 5.4 million barrels.

The first phase of the release will account for roughly one-third of the country’s commitment. About half of the total volume will come from commercial companies, including Shell and Schiphol, while the remaining barrels will be supplied from government-owned reserves managed by COVA, the agency responsible for the country’s strategic oil stocks.

Officials said the oil would be released gradually to maximise its impact on fuel prices. They also noted that several countries, including the United States, have already tapped their emergency reserves under the coordinated plan.

The government, however, will not release its strategic kerosene reserves, citing continued pressure in the jet fuel market. Although the Netherlands has not experienced immediate shortages, authorities said aviation fuel remains one of the tightest petroleum markets.

Energy experts say Europe currently has adequate crude oil supplies, but refined products such as diesel and jet fuel remain in shorter supply because of limited refining capacity. They added that releasing refined fuels would likely have a greater effect on reducing fuel prices than crude oil alone.