Jakarta, 28 April 2026: ERIA has released a new policy brief highlighting the urgent need for ASEAN to strengthen its oil and gas stockpiling systems in response to growing vulnerabilities in global energy supply.

The brief, ’From President Marcos’ Call to Action: Strengthening Oil and Gas Stockpiling Systems in ASEAN, ’ underscores the region’s increasing exposure to supply disruptions, particularly through critical chokepoints such as the Strait of Hormuz. Rising import dependence and limited, uneven stockpiling capacity across ASEAN Member States leave the region highly susceptible to sudden energy shocks.

Building on the policy direction articulated by Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., ERIA calls for a shift from analysis to implementation through co-ordinated and scalable stockpiling strategies. The brief identifies joint stockpiling as the central pillar of a regional approach, supported by complementary mechanisms such as national strategic reserves, commercial stockholding obligations, ticket systems, and public–private partnerships.

‘Stockpiling is the only instrument that can provide immediate physical supply during disruptions, ’ the brief notes, emphasising its role in stabilising markets, maintaining economic continuity, and reinforcing investor confidence.

ERIA’s analysis shows that most ASEAN Member States currently fall below internationally recognised benchmarks for emergency reserves, with stockholding levels unevenly distributed across the region. While some countries have made progress, many continue to rely primarily on commercial inventories or are still developing national frameworks.

To address these gaps, ERIA recommends that ASEAN move swiftly to operationalise joint stockpiling arrangements, including partnerships with oil-exporting countries. Such arrangements can reduce costs, enhance supply security, and strengthen regional cooperation.

The brief also highlights the importance of developing a diversified financing strategy to support large-scale stockpiling infrastructure. Blended finance models – combining public resources, private investment, and support from development finance institutions – will be essential to ensure scalability and long-term sustainability.

As ASEAN continues to navigate an increasingly uncertain global energy landscape, ERIA emphasises that strengthening stockpiling systems is not only critical for managing short-term disruptions but also for enhancing the region’s long-term economic resilience and integration.

ERIA remains committed to supporting ASEAN Member States in advancing practical and forward-looking energy policy solutions, including the development of co-ordinated regional stockpiling strategies.

[Read the full Policy Brief: From President Marcos’ Call to Action: Strengthening Oil and Gas Stockpiling Systems in ASEAN]