The collapse of a deal between VIVO and APR (BP-AKRA partnership) illustrates the tension in Indonesia’s downstream oil market. Pertamina’s base fuel contained 3.5 percent ethanol—within regulatory limits but below private standards. Accepting it would have meant risking margins and consumer trust; rejecting it triggered accusations of being uncooperative. Either way, Pertamina sets the terms, not the market. To subscribe please click here
