NPA Warns Unlicensed Fuel Outlets Will Be Shut Down

Unlicensed fuel outlets to shut down
The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has cautioned petroleum businesses and fuel stations across Ghana that any outlet operating without the required license will be closed immediately, with the possibility of being permanently decommissioned.
The warning, issued in a public notice on Tuesday, August 12, follows what the Authority describes as a growing trend of “illicit storage and marketing” of petroleum products. The NPA says such activities violate industry regulations and endanger public safety.
Section 11 of the National Petroleum Authority Act, 2005 (Act 691), as amended, states that no person can operate in the petroleum downstream sector without a license from the NPA Board. This covers activities such as importing, exporting, transporting, processing, refining, storing, distributing, marketing, and selling petroleum products, including crude oil, diesel, gasoline, and liquefied petroleum gas.
Section 12 of the Act also states that licenses may be granted only to Ghanaians or to foreign companies in registered joint ventures with Ghanaian partners, in agreement with local content requirements. The law also requires that such licenses be displayed prominently at the place of business.
“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 notice stated.
The Authority has urged all operators to regularise their status immediately, warning that enforcement teams will be carrying out inspections nationwide.