Hong Kong's Fire Services Department reported 221 complaints about illegal petrol stations in the first two months of the year, 42 per cent higher than the 2025 monthly average. The rise coincides with surging oil prices from the US-Israel war with Iran, which has driven standard petrol prices up by 56.4 per cent. Authorities noted that illegal operators are converting vehicles into mobile refuelling points, heightening public safety risks.
Hong Kong is grappling with sharply rising oil prices linked to the US-Israel war with Iran. The conflict began in Iran on February 28 and has entered its second week. Iran has effectively shut down the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20 per cent of the world's oil supply passes, pushing oil prices above US$100 per barrel.
The Fire Services Department reported 221 complaints about illegal petrol stations in January and February, averaging about 111 per month—42 per cent higher than the 2025 monthly average. Prosecutions rose even more sharply, up 85 per cent over last year's monthly average. Illegal operators are using tactics such as modifying vehicles and containers into mobile refuelling points, which complicates detection and enforcement.
"Back in the day, it could be very large scale like a petrol station, but now the scale is smaller and it is scattered across different places. It could be places like cars and containers," divisional officer Ng Wing-chit told a radio programme, adding that such methods make enforcement more difficult.
According to the Consumer Council's fuel price tracker, the price of standard petrol has broadly increased by 56.4 per cent since the war's start. Authorities warn that these illegal operations pose risks to public safety. The Fire Services Department and Customs and Excise Department are involved in monitoring and enforcement, alongside the Consumer Council, but face ongoing challenges.
