INFOKU, BLORA –As predicted by some people some time ago, the price of 3 kilogram (kg) LPGthe retail soared far above retail price (HET) ahead of Eid.
Field observations show that the price per melon gas cylinder at the retail level has currently reached IDR 30 thousand per cylinder.
One of the grocery traders in Jepon District , Imam Muzaka, admitted that he was forced to sell at a high price because the wholesale prices from other retailers were also expensive.
"I get it from retailers for between Rp 24,000 and Rp 25,000. So I sell it for Rp 28,000, and some even sell it for Rp 30,000," he said.
"This phenomenon regularly occurs before Eid," he added.
Responding to this, Blora Deputy Regent Sri Setyorini emphasized to the press that subsidized LPG should be sold according to regulations.
Otherwise, the lower classes, the primary targets of the subsidy program, will be the ones most impacted.
" This 3-kg LPG gas is subsidized for the lower classes. If the price skyrockets at retailers, it's clearly not reaching its intended target and must be addressed immediately," Rini stressed.
Rini asked the relevant agencies to immediately intervene to monitor and regulate distribution, especially along the distribution route from bases to retailers.
In fact, according to him, Pertamina has increased the 3 kg LPG quota for Blora Regency to anticipate the surge in demand.
"Pertamina has clearly provided a significant amount of additional fuel. But once it's taken from the depots by retailers, it's difficult to monitor," he said.
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He acknowledged that supervision at this point is quite complicated because distribution is entirely the domain of business actors, once it leaves the official base .
Besides distribution factors, high demand from the MSME sector during Ramadan is also a trigger.
"Small traders are increasing in number. From the town square to Jalan Pemuda alone, there are up to 100 MSMEs. That's just one area," he continued.
The Blora Regency Government also plans to coordinate with agents and distributors to ensure supplies remain smooth and prices stabilize.
Rini warned retailers not to manipulate prices for personal gain.
"I implore retailers not to sell above the HET. Hopefully, the price can be below Rp 25,000 this Eid. It's a shame for the public," he concluded.
Rini dismissed rumors of a shortage of LPG. She stated that the LPG distribution system operates daily, making hoarding unlikely.
"When gas arrives, it must be distributed immediately. It cannot be stored in tanks, as it must be replenished tomorrow. This ensures there are no shortages," he concluded. (Endah/ IST )
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