According to a report by Aju Economy on May 10, many gas stations are reportedly unaware of the agreement's details. Critics argue that measures intended to stabilize oil prices and improve the oil distribution structure have not been effectively applied on the ground, leading to confusion.
The key points of the cooperation agreement, signed on April 9, include changing the existing full purchase contracts to a mixed contract that stipulates purchasing "at least 60%" and abolishing the post-settlement system, which had been a major complaint from gas stations, although it can still be allowed upon request.
However, the refining industry claims that the agreement has not significantly changed existing trading practices. An industry insider stated, "There are hardly any substantial changes compared to before," adding that the post-settlement system was originally optional and that exclusive contracts could be renewed annually.
One of the main concerns for the refining industry is the issue arising from the easing of the "60% exclusive contract volume." If gas stations displaying a specific refinery's brand are allowed to sell up to 40% of products from other companies, it could lead to unclear quality control and accountability.
An industry representative expressed, "The biggest practical concern is how to allocate responsibility if issues arise with the quality and quantity of products mixed with those from other companies while displaying a specific refinery's logo," adding that there is also a dilemma regarding whether to provide the same marketing services and benefits to mixed-selling gas stations as those offered to branded facilities.
While the government and lawmakers expedited the signing of the agreement, the lack of detailed guidelines on how to implement it on the ground has been identified as a problem.
An industry representative noted, "We are currently in discussions to implement the agreement's related contents." In contrast, a gas station representative stated, "We were not even properly informed that the cooperation agreement was signed," expressing that the lack of official communication made it feel like mere media play.
With even the gas stations directly involved not receiving information about the agreement, there are criticisms that the political sphere is merely highlighting the achievement of signing the agreement under the pretext of stabilizing oil prices and promoting cooperation. Key issues remain unresolved, including accountability for quality due to the easing of exclusive contracts, standards for post-settlement after its abolition, and brand management for mixed-selling gas stations, but specific follow-up coordination at the government level is still lacking.
A gas station representative remarked, "While we agree with the intention to alleviate the burden on people's livelihoods amid oil price instability, we have no idea if it will be effective. The agreement will be meaningless if not implemented, so we hope to see measures applied on the ground as soon as possible."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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