Under the ongoing tensions in the Middle East, particularly the war in Iran, and the volatility of energy prices, Mauritania is accelerating the securing of its supplies of oil products and basic commodities. The stated objective is to limit the risks of shortages, contain imported inflationary pressure, and preserve purchasing power in a globally more uncertain environment.
During a government weekly press conference held on March 11, 2026, the Minister of Energy and Petroleum, Mohamed Ould Mohamed Malainine Ould Khaled, stated that five ships loaded with oil products were expected by the end of the month to strengthen national reserves. This approach is part of a preventive strategy, as the risk of disruption to international flows and the direction of oil prices maintain uncertainty in the markets.
On the budget front, the executive says it is maintaining a mechanism to adjust subsidies for energy products to cushion the impact of international price increases on consumers. According to the projections provided, if the barrel remains in the range of 85 to 90 dollars, the public effort to support liquid fuels could reach around 25 billion ouguiyas in 2026, or nearly 625 million dollars.
Consolidating the confidence of international partners
The government spokesperson, El Houssein Ould Meddou, indicated that temporary measures have been taken to preserve stocks of food and energy products intended for the local market. These measures are part of a system managed by a ministerial commission responsible for maintaining a sufficient level of strategic reserves and anticipating potential disruptions in global trade.
Beyond short-term management, this strategy reflects Nouakchott’s desire to strengthen its energy resilience and consolidate the confidence of international partners. In a context of energy transition and restructuring of global hydrocarbon flows, Mauritania aims to secure its supplies while creating a more predictable environment for investors, energy actors, and development partners.
