NPA warns of closure and decommissioning of unlicensed fuel stations

File photo of fuel pump

The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has issued a stern warning to fuel stations operating without the legally required license, stating that such outlets risk immediate closure and possible decommissioning.

In a statement sighted by GhanaWeb Business, the NPA explained that the move is part of efforts to curb illicit operations and reinforce regulatory compliance within the downstream petroleum industry.

“Some persons are engaged in illicit storage and marketing of petroleum products... The NPA is cautioning all persons that failure to acquire the requisite license, as required by the NPA Act, will result in the locking up and/or decommissioning of all illegal outlets,” the statement read.

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The authority further said its actions are backed by its legal mandate under the National Petroleum Authority Act, 2005 (Act 691), as amended. Section 11 of the Act states: “A person shall NOT engage in a business or commercial activity in the petroleum downstream industry UNLESS that person has been granted a license for that purpose by the NPA Board.”

The NPA reminded operators that any license issued must be conspicuously displayed on the business premises, as required by law.

The authority is therefore urging all individuals and businesses involved in the storage, distribution, and sale of petroleum products to strictly comply with regulatory requirements to avoid sanctions.