GENERAL30 Sept 2026
Govt floats draft Petroleum Amendment Bill to decriminalise minor offences
The government has floated a draft Petroleum Amendment Bill. It would replace criminal liability for minor licence breaches with civil penalties, while keeping specific offences for serious violations. The Petroleum Act, 1934, which sets this framework, was last amended in 1970. If you run a petroleum-related business, minor lapses may soon cost money, not jail time. Watch for the final Bill.
Key Statutory Highlights
- The draft Petroleum Amendment Bill seeks to replace criminal liability for minor licence breaches with civil penalties.
- The same draft also creates specific offences for serious violations.
- The Petroleum Act, 1934, which sets the current framework, has stayed largely unchanged and was last amended in 1970.
Actionable Advice for Taxpayers / Founders:Since this is still only a draft, don't act on it yet. Follow official government updates for the final Bill, and if you hold a petroleum licence, ask your advisor to review your compliance once it is passed.
Statutory Disclaimer: TaxQue Shorts are AI-assisted editorial briefs for compliance awareness. This brief has not passed every source check; confirm the original notification before acting. This does not constitute formal legal or CA counsel.
TaxQue News Desk
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