The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) is proposing new rules to prevent price fixing, hidden charges and other practices that could restrict competition in Nigeria’s petroleum industry.

According to a Legit.ng report, the proposed regulations would stop competing fuel operators from coordinating pump prices, supply volumes, discounts, freight charges, profit margins and tender bids.

The draft rules would also require owners of major petroleum infrastructure, including pipelines, depots, storage terminals, jetties and bulk-loading facilities, to provide qualified businesses with fair and transparent access.

NMDPRA Chief Executive, Mallam Rabiu Umar, said the proposed framework was developed under Section 216 of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), 2021.

The authority’s Secretary and Legal Adviser, Dr Joseph Tolorunse, said the draft contains 138 regulations across 23 parts and is designed to translate the PIA’s competition provisions into enforceable rules.

The proposals would also prohibit undisclosed surcharges, preferential arrangements and informal agreements that alter published terms for accessing petroleum infrastructure.

Meanwhile, the Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered NMDPRA to continue granting petroleum import licences to Matrix Energy, AA Rano and AYM Shafa, provided they meet the applicable requirements.

The ruling adds another dimension to the ongoing dispute over fuel imports and domestic refining, with Dangote Refinery separately challenging the continued issuance of import licences.

NMDPRA said the proposed regulations are still subject to consultation before final approval.

The measures, if adopted, are expected to establish clearer rules for competition in the petroleum market, although they do not amount to an immediate change in petrol prices.