Gas rules published for consultation

The government has published draft regulations governing the sale of gas cylinders in view of problems distributors faced when trying to sell containers belonging to different companies.

The draft rules are subject to a four-week consultation period during which people can send their comments to the Ministry of Resources and Rural Affairs.

According to the draft regulations, those in possession of a licence to distribute or sell cylinders must apply for new authorisation that will be issued within a week, for a period of six years. Any subsisting agreements between existing operators will be declared null and void if they are inconsistent with the new regulations.

Distributors have to guarantee to enter into an agreement with each individual wholesaler to transport and distribute LPG in transportable cylinders. Wholesalers can, however, organise fixed-point systems to sell their product only.

The regulations also aim to make the distribution of gas more convenient for customers, allowing for call centres and direct orders.

The draft rules were published in the Government Gazette.