K-Pet Strike at Kalecik Facilities Threatens Northern Cyprus Fuel Supply

An indefinite strike at the Kalecik filling facilities of Kıbrıs Türk Petrolleri (K-Pet) entered its second day on 15 October 2026, raising the risk of a fuel supply crisis. Fuel stocks at stations supplied by K-Pet are beginning to run out, and some stations in Lefkoşa have closed because they have no fuel left. The strike was launched by the Kıbrıs Türk Petrol İşçileri Sendikası (Petrol-İş).

The strike follows the failure to withdraw dismissal notices for nine employees. Dev-İş Chairman Semih Kolozali said the strike would continue until a result is achieved, and that the union opposes laying off nine people without negotiation. He said the institution is profitable and needs staff, and that the facility would not operate during the strike.

Suppliers warned that if the strike continues, current stocks will be insufficient and more closures could spread. They are calling on the government to bring the parties together, mediate and produce a concrete solution to end the strike. It remains unclear whether companies other than K-Pet can meet any increase in demand.