澳大利亚授权储备关键矿产和燃料

Australia's parliament passed legislation authorizing the country's export credit agency to purchase, store, and sell fuel, as well as key minerals including rare earths. The energy crisis in the Middle East is putting pressure on Australia.

The government led by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced plans to establish a critical mineral reserve in January. However, with the US and Israel's war on Iran disrupting global energy markets, the Labor Party added the ability to acquire and store fuel to its draft bill. The bill was passed by the parliament on Tuesday.

This move comes as gasoline and diesel prices at Australian gas stations have soared to record highs. Panic buying has driven up demand – especially in rural areas – and led to some fuel shortages, prompting the government to introduce measures such as halving fuel consumption taxes and reducing heavy vehicle charges.

The new law allows Australia's Export Finance Agency to increase the country's existing fuel reserves. The agency, which previously primarily provided loans, bonds, and equity to support Australian businesses overseas, will now expand its responsibilities to include purchasing diesel, gasoline, and rare earth elements to strengthen the supply chain. The Australian government has allocated A$120 million (US$83.1 million) for the reserve.

Editor: Wang Yongsheng

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