France: Shortages affecting some fuel stations nationwide as of Oct. 8

Event

Fuel shortages prompted by strikes are affecting around one in five gas stations in France as of Oct. 8. According to the Energy Ministry, while most fuel stations are operating as normal, at least 19 percent of fuel stations were facing shortages of at least one type of fuel as of 13:00 Oct. 7. Long queues have formed outside many stations, especially those in urban centers and in the vicinity of France's land border with Belgium. Long queues have also been reported in Paris and its suburbs early Oct. 8. The Energy Ministry stated that the government was ready to use more of its strategic fuel reserves over Oct. 8 and 9 to ease shortages.

Temporary fuel shortages could persist at many stations in the coming days, particularly in urban centers; associated queues could prompt congestion on nearby roads.

Context

Fuel shortages affecting petrol stations in the country are largely a result of ongoing strikes. TotalEnergies and Exxon Mobil employees affiliated with the General Confederation of Labour (Confederation generale du travail, CGT) have been striking over wage disputes and other grievances since late September. The strikes have resulted in significant disruptions to the country's refineries and fuel storage facilities.

Advice

Prepare for some disruptions at fuel stations. Consider refueling vehicles regularly.