TotalEnergies boss warns of fuel shortages in France, Macron responds

France could face fuel shortages within months if disruption to the Strait of Hormuz continues, the head of TotalEnergies has warned, prompting a response from President Macron, who says the situation is under control.

Speaking on April 24, CEO Patrick Pouyanné said the country risked entering an “era of energy shortages” if the blockage of the Strait of Hormuz lasted “two or three more months”.

Warning over prolonged disruption

The Strait of Hormuz, through which around one fifth of global oil and gas supplies normally pass, has been severely restricted since the outbreak of conflict in the Middle East in late February.

Mr Pouyanné said existing reserves had now been fully used up to cushion the impact.

“If the situation continues for two or three months, we will enter an era of shortages, similar to that some Asian countries are already experiencing,” he said.

He added that Europe had not yet reached that point, but warned that leaving “20% of global oil and gas reserves inaccessible” would inevitably have “major consequences”.

TotalEnergies has already lost around 15% of its Middle East production due to the crisis, Mr Pouyanné said.

He also called for greater “resilience” in energy infrastructure, suggesting investment in new pipeline networks to reduce reliance on the strait.

Gulf oil remained difficult to replace, he added, partly due to its relatively low cost.

The concerns echo warnings from the aviation sector, where Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary said fuel supplies were only guaranteed until the end of May, and that the industry must prepare for a summer of disruption due to potential shortages.

‘The worst thing is panic’

President Macron said there was currently “no scenario” pointing to fuel shortages in France.

“At this stage, the situation is under control,” he said. “We are not in the worst-case scenario, and it is not the most likely outcome.”

Mr Macron cautioned against alarmist messaging, warning that shortages can be exacerbated by consumer behaviour.

“In moments of geopolitical tension and uncertainty, the worst thing is panic. Often, shortages are created by panic itself,” he said.

Mr Macron said the government’s priority was to help secure the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz “in full compliance with international law” and with guaranteed freedom of navigation.

Fuel prices have risen sharply since the start of the conflict, but French authorities have so far resisted calls for emergency measures, focusing instead on diplomatic efforts and supply management.