Several OMCs Flout NPA Fuel Price Floor Directive
By Praisebell Rosemond Larbi
Several Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) are reportedly ignoring the National Petroleum Authority’s (NPA) directive that requires all industry players to sell petroleum products at or above the regulator-set Fuel Price Floor.
Checks at various service stations on February 2 and 3, 2026, revealed that some OMCs were selling fuel below the minimum prices approved by the NPA, despite the directive being in effect for the first pricing window of February.
For example, Amser and Radiance were observed selling below the regulated price floor, while other companies reported pricing discrepancies included:
• Breedlove: Petrol – GHC 9.80 | Diesel – GHC 10.80
• ALINCO: Petrol – GHC 9.80 | Diesel – GHC 10.78
• Frontie: Petrol – GHC 9.80 | Diesel – GHC 10.75
• Frimps: Petrol – GHC 9.97 | Diesel – GHC 11.20
• Goodness: Petrol – GHC 9.75 | Diesel – GHC 10.75
The NPA last week issued a directive specifying minimum prices for the first half of February 2026. Under the programme, no OMC or LPG Marketing Company (LPGMC) is allowed to sell products below the approved Fuel Price Floor, which for this period was set at:
• Diesel: GHC 10.95 per litre (up from GHC 10.47)
• Petrol: GHC 9.99 per litre (up from GHC 9.80)
• LPG: GHC 9.05 per kilogram
The authority has called on all non-compliant operators to adjust pump prices immediately to align with the regulations.
However, several OMCs and industry stakeholders have expressed concerns about enforcement. The Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies has urged the NPA to take strict action against errant firms, noting that non-compliant players undermine companies following the rules and distort competition in the market.
Some OMCs have raised questions about the effectiveness of the policy, arguing that weak enforcement diminishes its relevance. A few industry players have even suggested that if compliance cannot be guaranteed, the programme should be reconsidered or suspended.
Despite these challenges, the NPA has reiterated its commitment to ensuring market stability and protecting consumer interests. The regulator stressed that the Fuel Price Floor Programme is a critical tool to prevent price undercutting and maintain fair competition among petroleum marketers.
As the first half of February progresses, stakeholders and consumers alike are watching closely to see whether the directive will be enforced and whether OMCs will align with the new minimum prices.
