Title: Queues in front of gas stations in Bangui: Tamoil RCA facing administrative problems
Introduction :
In recent weeks, residents of Bangui have found themselves faced with long queues in front of gas stations. The reason ? The closure of Tamoil RCA branches, formerly known as TotalEnergies. Indeed, about two months ago, the French multinational sold its activities in the country to TransAfricaMarket Oil, also known as Tamoil. However, this transition has not gone smoothly, as the buyer is faced with administrative problems and financial demands from the authorities.
Tamoil RCA’s tax problems:
The Ministry of Energy recently announced the suspension of customs operations for the former Total Centrafrique until the company settles its tax debts. According to reports, Tamoil RCA accumulated more than 2 billion CFA francs (3.2 million euros) in unpaid tax debts in May and August this year. This situation led the authorities to ask Tamoil to settle its tax obligations before it could resume normal operations.
Missing administrative authorizations:
In addition to tax issues, Tamoil also faces questions related to the administrative authorizations needed to carry out its activities. The authorities claim that the company did not submit or receive the required approval, which earned it a fine of more than one billion FCFA for the transfer of business assets and an additional fine of 200 million FCFA for a illegal exploitation without approval for the importation and distribution of petroleum products. These administrative issues appear to be the main reason behind the suspension of the company’s customs operations.
Discussions in progress:
Despite these challenges, discussions are underway between representatives of Total, Rochefort International and the Central African authorities. According to testimonies, managers of these companies obtained approval from President Touadéra during a meeting last April. However, it seems that the managers of Rochefort International did not anticipate the administrative problems they are currently facing. Officials say these issues are just administrative compliance needs and discussions are continuing.
Alternative solutions:
While waiting to resolve these problems, the government has established contacts with Neptune Oil, a Cameroonian company subsidiary of a Swiss broker named Optima Energy, to ensure the supply of fuels in the country. This decision aims to compensate for the shortage caused by the closure of Tamoil RCA branches. It remains to be seen whether this temporary solution will be sufficient to meet the growing demand for fuel in Bangui.
Conclusion :
The situation of queues in front of service stations in Bangui highlights the challenges that Tamoil RCA has faced since its takeover of activities from TotalEnergies. Tax and administrative problems led to the suspension of the company’s customs activities. However, discussions are ongoing between the parties concerned to find a solution and resolve the outstanding issues. In the meantime, the government is looking for alternatives to ensure fuel supplies in the capital. To be continued.