Crisis: Queues Return, Fuel Importers Suspend Operations, Crisis Looms

Overnight, fuel importing companies in Lebanon declared they would halt deliveries to distributors and suspend import operations starting Wednesday morning. This decision comes in response to parliament’s recent move to levy an extraordinary tax on firms that imported subsidized goods in 2020 and 2021. The importers have expressed their readiness to resume operations, including on Sundays, once the issue is resolved.

The fuel importers emphasized that they did not reap benefits from the subsidies, which were exclusively for Lebanese consumers. They criticized the parliamentary decision, highlighting its lack of thorough study or justification. The companies warned that the imposition of this extraordinary tax or fine would devastate the import sector, adversely impacting their operations, banking relationships, and ability to import. Moreover, they cautioned that bankruptcy could negatively affect tens of thousands of employees and their families.

This announcement has raised concerns among vehicle owners, leading to the return of long queues at some gas stations on Wednesday. To provide further details on their stance, the companies have planned a press conference at 3 pm.