‘Toughest stance’: Hong Kong launches 18 operations against illegal fuel stations

Customs chief Chan Tsz-tat says the practice has become increasingly common in urban areas

Hong Kong authorities launched 18 joint operations against illicit refuelling stations this year amid a global energy price surge, with the customs chief noting the practice has become increasingly common in urban areas.

But Commissioner for Customs and Excise Chan Tsz-tat said on Saturday that despite the upwards trend, illegal refuelling was not widespread locally.

“The cost of owning a private vehicle in Hong Kong is very high, and petrol prices here are undoubtedly among the highest in the region,” he said.

“For many drivers, the savings from using illicit fuel may not make up a significant portion of their overall expenses.”

Since conflicts triggered by a US-Israel attack on Iran broke out in late February, crude oil supply chains have been disrupted as Tehran and Washington took turns blocking the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic waterway leading to the oil-rich Persian Gulf.

Global energy prices have since skyrocketed, with the Brent crude benchmark rising to US$105 per barrel on Saturday, compared with around US$70 in February.