UNMIK/PR/63

Press Release

06 October 1999

KOUCHNER SIGNS PETROLEUM PRODUCTS REGULATION

PRISTINA - Bernard Kouchner, Special Representative of the Secretary General, has signed a regulation on the importation, distribution and sale of petroleum products for and in Kosovo.

Any person or company wishing to import, transport, distribute or sell petroleum, oil or lubricants must first obtain a license from UNMIK by submitting a statement of intent.

The SRSG has established a Fuel Supervisory Board to administer licenses. The Board will work to ensure a reasonable and fair degree of competition, appropriate pricing polices and adequate inspection standards.

Details on delivery capacities, sources of procurement, pricing structures, quantities to be delivered and intended markets also must be registered with the Board. In addition, licensees must pay all customs, excise duties and sales tax levied on the petroleum products in accordance with applicable law.

The SRSG can revoke a license if any condition of the regulation is breached.

The regulation shall not apply to the importation, transportation, distribution or sale of petroleum products used by UNMIK, KFOR, other UN agencies, NGOs registered with the UN and the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.