TRENGGALEK – Pertalite demand has risen sharply in Trenggalek following a significant increase in non-subsidized fuel prices, prompting many motorists to switch to the lower-cost fuel option while some consumers continue to rely on Pertamax.
The change became visible shortly after the government-adjusted fuel prices took effect on June 10, 2026. A wider price gap between subsidized and non-subsidized gasoline has begun reshaping fuel consumption patterns across the regency.
Observations at several fuel stations, including the Surodakan Terminal gas station, showed a noticeable increase in Pertalite sales from the first day of the new pricing policy.
Kurniatri Baskoro Edi, manager of the Surodakan Terminal fuel station, said fuel distribution data clearly reflected the shift in consumer behavior.
“The change is visible from our fuel distribution volume. At the same hour, Pertalite sales usually reach around four tons. Now they are approaching six tons. The increase comes from Pertamax users switching to Pertalite,” Baskoro said on Thursday.
The trend emerged after the price of Pertamax RON 92 rose from Rp12,300 to Rp16,250 per liter, an increase of Rp3,950. Meanwhile, Pertalite remains priced at Rp10,000 per liter.
The difference between the two products now stands at Rp6,250 per liter. For many motorists, the gap offers a strong incentive to choose subsidized fuel and reduce daily transportation expenses.
Despite the migration toward Pertalite, not all consumers have abandoned Pertamax. Some motorists continue to use the non-subsidized fuel because they believe it delivers better vehicle performance and engine efficiency.
Fuel station operators said they have not encountered supply problems despite the higher demand. Daily Pertalite deliveries currently reach around 16 kiloliters, a volume considered sufficient to meet local consumption needs.
“Pertalite stocks remain safe and under control. Supplies from Pertamina continue to arrive smoothly,” Baskoro said.
Station managers have also increased monitoring of Bio Solar distribution because the fuel carries a limited allocation. The Surodakan station receives approximately 240 kiloliters of Bio Solar each month.
Baskoro expects the shift in consumption patterns to continue in the coming weeks. If more motorists move to subsidized fuel, queues at Pertalite pumps could become longer.
Among consumers who remain loyal to Pertamax is Siti Zulaikha. She acknowledged the higher cost but said she still prefers the product because it improves her motorcycle’s performance.
“The increase is noticeable. What used to cost Rp20,000 now costs Rp30,000. But I still use Pertamax because it feels better for my motorcycle,” she said.
Siti also expressed concern about the broader economic impact of rising fuel prices. She hopes authorities can avoid further increases because higher fuel costs often lead to rising prices for other goods and services.
Another customer, Ahmad Zaeni, said he would continue using Pertamax despite the higher price. He accepted the adjustment and remained optimistic about the country’s future.
“The important thing is that everything keeps running smoothly. It is for Indonesia. I hope the country becomes more prosperous,” he said.