Saudi Arabia has taken a significant step towards enhancing the relationship between service providers and consumers by introducing regulations that govern the process of distributing and selling liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).
These regulations aim to streamline and improve the interaction between the parties involved, ensuring efficient and reliable LPG services for consumers.
On Sunday, the Energy Ministry released a guidebook outlining the procedures for providing LPG distribution and sales services, revealing the introduction of self-service and e-services, marking a significant milestone in the sector.
The government issuing the executive regulations, regulatory guidelines, and service provision manual for the dry gas and LPG distribution systems for residential and commercial purposes aims to encourage investment in these activities to serve the public interest and achieve developmental objectives in the country.
The new guidelines will be enforced across all outlets selling gas cylinders, including stores, kiosks, and self-service vending machines.
Service providers are required to promptly disclose any changes in service or product prices, while also offering various payment options, whether electronic or through point-of-sale devices.
Additionally, a comprehensive payment system will be established, encompassing all e-payment methods.
According to the guidelines, gas cylinder retailers are obligated to offer all approved types of cylinders that are in sound condition, clean, and equipped with sealed valves.
These cylinders should be sold at the approved tariff, ensuring that consumers have access to pricing information for other products and services as well.
Service providers must also commit to ensuring that self-service vending machines and kiosks for cylinder sales include clear instructions in both Arabic and English.
Furthermore, service providers must pledge to fulfill orders within a maximum period of six hours from the time of acceptance.
According to the released guidelines, service providers are required to adhere to the procedures governing invoice issuance and payment collection for their services.
Invoices must comply with the relevant regulations and requirements, and they should be issued and provided to the consumer either physically, via text message, or through email.
