4 do’s for a successful fuel marking programme

In the current context and in the face of the energy crisis it is even more important for them to ensure that their fuel supplies are not diverted.

We have identified the best practices to ensure the success of a programme and maximize the return on investment.

• Understand the issue
• Pick the right solution
• Communicate with your stakeholders
• Collect data

1.) Get a complete understanding of the issues

Understanding the extent of the fraud is half the solution and it will not only help you choose the right solution, but it will also assist in measuring the impact that a marking programme has. Inability to clearly identify the origin of the problem often leads to more problems and to poor results in the long term. As each programme address unique objectives, therefore each programme is different.

A national audit is the best way to get a full picture of the issues. Before setting-up our programme we recommend measuring the level of adulteration within the country by collecting and analysis samples.

2.) Pick the right solution which responds to your fraud issue

A fuel marking programme can quickly bring many benefits and significantly reduce the level of fraud within a country, but to achieve these results it is essential to choose a solution that will response to your issues and to combine it with high quality service.

In practical terms this means ensuring that the technology used provide is the most advanced response to combat fraud and is not already outdated.

Our programmes rely on four key elements:

• Adequate marking configuration to determine which fuel supply (e.g., export) needs to be marked
• Invisible and tamper-proof markers with no abrasive effect on the fuel and no environmental impact
• Inspections with field portable analysers capable of identifying any sign of dilution or adulteration in only a few minutes
• A smart platform which translates data into actionable insights

3.) Communicate with your stakeholders at early stage

Fuel marking programmes not only are known to increase tax collection and sales volumes, but they also have a positive impact on protecting consumers and the environment. By reducing for instance, the cost of car breakage associated with poor fuel quality, or by limiting the emissions of dangerous unregulated polluting elements.

Involving all oil companies and informing the public through public awareness campaign including sharing information on how it works, and the expected results and benefits will not only promote transparency but also develop trust.

It’s also important to highlight the deterrent effect that a communication campaign has. At the start of the programme, it can be effective in achieving quick results. Neglecting this phase can seriously harm the success of the programme and create more tension around a very price-sensitive product.

​4.) Collect data and learn from them  

We will never strengthen it enough collecting data is key to measure the effectiveness of any project and take correcting actions when need be. What it means is learning from the data collected from the field and using them to identify patterns and red flags, and eventually prevent fraud.

As part of our programme, we provide extensive statistics gathered in dynamic dashboards to enable our clients to make the best decisions based on real data and accelerate the positive impacts of a fuel marking programme. Building from the beginning a strong visibility and transparency scheme have been proven to help improving performances and efficiency overtime.

Our programmes provide an effective response to theft, smuggling or adulteration of petroleum products. Thanks to an advanced technology we help governments and oil companies protect their revenues, consumers and the environment.

For more information about contact us at governments@cotecna.com