Post a comment 
The Sierra Leone Labour Congress (SLLC) has called on the National Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NPRA) to reduce retail fuel prices, arguing that recent declines in international crude oil prices have not been reflected at local pumps.
In a press release issued on behalf of what it described as over 3,000,000 formal and informal workers, the Congress stated that global oil benchmarks, including Brent crude, have fallen in recent weeks and months. It noted that the reduction has lowered landed costs for refined petroleum products in many importing countries, but said consumers, transport operators, businesses, and public services in Sierra Leone are yet to benefit from corresponding price reductions.
The SLLC is therefore urging the NPRA to take several immediate measures, including a review of the current fuel pricing formula, which it says is often adjusted upward when global oil prices rise.
It also called for an immediate reduction in pump prices for petrol, diesel, and kerosene, proportional to the decline in landed costs. In addition, the Labour Congress is recommending monthly price reviews to reflect fluctuations in international oil markets, as well as the reduction or removal of certain taxes and charges on petroleum products.
According to the SLLC, such measures would provide immediate relief to households facing high living costs and reduce operational expenses for transport operators and businesses, thereby supporting broader economic activity.
“Whilst workers await your immediate action as requested, we remain optimistic that the government will act in the interest of its people,” the statement added.
The letter was addressed to the NPRA and copied to its Director, formally outlining the union’s position on fuel pricing.
Fuel prices in Sierra Leone are determined under a cost-recovery mechanism that takes into account international market prices, exchange rates, and taxes.
