This archive report was first published on 3 January 2020.
As of January 1, 2020, a new law regulating the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) market came into force, giving traders six months to comply. However, two days after the regulator implemented the new rules, compliance by vendors seems to be low.
Consumers are now fearing a possible shortage of cooking gas as many retailers have closed their businesses in protest. The new regulations, which were passed by parliament in June 2019, make it mandatory for retailers to register their businesses and obtain valid licenses from the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority.
According to a spot check by Channel One Business, many cooking gas vendors in Nairobi's Pangani area closed their businesses to avoid being interviewed. Consumers who refused to speak to the TV team on camera decried the implementation of the new LPG regulations, saying they will be the ones affected.
"Consumers are staring at a possible shortage of LPG supply if retailers continue to close shop," they said.
The new regulations are expected to alter the LPG market radically, but it remains to be seen how long it will take for retailers to comply.
