War in the Middle East: What strategic fuel stocks does New Caledonia have?

In early April, the government official in charge of the economy, Christopher Gygä̈s, stated, “Fuel stocks are guaranteed at least until July.” In reality, there is an even more comfortable margin as New Caledonia has strategic reserves kept in the tanks of the three companies managing the territory’s supply (Mobil IPC, Total Energies, and the Petroleum Services Company).

These reserves can only be ordered for use by the state in the event of a major crisis. In such a situation, the local government, with support from DIMENC, decides on the priority sectors.

The priority sectors are grouped into four levels: – First level: emergency and health services (police, firefighters, doctors, nurses, etc.) – Second level: vital functions such as drinking water, sanitation, and telecommunications – Third level: essential links for the maintenance of the food logistics chain – Fourth level: essential links for the maintenance of territorial continuity (maritime shuttles, domestic air transport, etc.)

The decision to mobilize or not mobilize strategic stocks is based on several criteria closely monitored by the authorities: – A possible disruption of the logistics chain due to a natural disaster or a tanker delay – The occurrence of a social or political crisis leading to a prolonged blockage of deposits – Worldwide shortage with impossible access to the resource

Regarding the minimum level of stocks, it is set by the decree of May 25, 2021, concerning the establishment of strategic oil stocks in several overseas territories, including New Caledonia. The minimum level to be respected is calculated “every year in February” and is established proportionally to the quantities sold by different companies during the last civil year.

As of May 11, 2026, strategic stocks in New Caledonia were approximately 45 days for gasoline (11,071 m3), 36 days for diesel (18,074 m3), and 32 days for kerosene (2,829 m3), which roughly matches the levels indicated by the decree.

Until now, strategic stocks have never been mobilized in New Caledonia, and the Middle East conflict should not change this. The government remains reassuring, stating, “At present, there is no problem.” For the near and medium term, there is no risk of fuel shortage in New Caledonia. A daily dialogue is maintained with oil operators, the government, and ministries to closely monitor the situation, as confirmed by the High Commission.

However, the possibility of a shortage cannot be completely ruled out. According to René Ferre, director-general of the Petroleum Services Company, “The hypothesis is not null. We cannot guarantee with 100% certainty that there will be no shortage, especially with the sanctions imposed on Russia, and our fuels must be accompanied by certificates confirming that they do not contain any molecules of Russian oil.”