Brazil Gas Stations Coming Up Empty

Brazil truckers strike leads to thousands of stations running out of fuel.

March 09, 2012

SAO PAULO, BRAZIL - Impacted by a truck drivers?? strike, Sao Paulo??s 2,000 gas stations are quickly running out of fuel, the Associated Press reports.

A state court judge ruled earlier this week that the strike in South America??s largest city must end, though it was not immediately clear whether truckers were complying with the order.

Truckers are protesting the city??s attempt to restrict where big trucks can drive in a city famous for its 24/7 congestion.

Jose Gouveia, president of a marketers association representing gas station owners, said all area stations have been hit hard by the strike.

"They're either running low or are completely out of gas and ethanol," he said. "I expect all of them will be completely out of fuel [soon]."

Shell station manager Marcelo Fernandes said all of his gasoline and ethanol was out, and that he stood to lose about $15,000 in sales each day his tanks remained empty.

"They're killing us, the government has got to give in to the guys. In the best-case scenario, if they ended the strike now, I don't think I would get any fuel before Thursday," Fernandes said.

The vice president of the Sao Paulo Truck Drivers Union said all 800 of the city's tanker truck drivers have joined the strike, though deliveries for all emergency services are guaranteed.

For a more in-depth look at Brazil??s fuel and convenience environment, consider attending the NACS Global Forum, held in Sao Paulo, Brazil, from June 29 to July 2. Register today!

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