Pertamina has officially announced a significant increase in the price of its non-subsidized fuels, a move that has sparked concern among energy experts and consumers alike. The price of Pertamax (RON 92) has risen from IDR 12,300 to IDR 16,250 per liter, while Pertamax Green 95 (RON 95) has jumped from IDR 12,900 to IDR 17,000 per liter. In contrast, subsidized fuels such as Pertalite, which remains at IDR 10,000 per liter, and Biodiesel at IDR 6,800 per liter, are unaffected by the adjustment.

The sharp increase, amounting to roughly 30 percent, is attributed to global market pressures. Pertamina has been absorbing substantial costs due to rising crude oil prices, the strengthening of the US dollar, and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. According to company data, Pertamina has been bearing an average burden of IDR 4,500 per liter, which translates to approximately IDR 54 trillion annually.

Industry experts warn that the new pricing structure could trigger a migration of consumers from Pertamax to the more affordable Pertalite. Hadi Ismoyo, Secretary General of the Indonesian Association of Petroleum Engineers (IATMI), emphasized that such a shift could destabilize the subsidy system. He urged the government to strengthen oversight of subsidized fuel distribution and prevent vehicles that do not qualify from consuming Pertalite.