Investigating Potential Cheating Practices at Gas Stations in Timor-Leste: A Study on Consumer Protection and Market Integrity

This research report presents findings from a comprehensive mixed-methods study investigating potential cheating practices at gas stations in Timor-Leste. The study employed direct fuel measurements at 35 gas stations (177 transactions totaling 947,000ml), consumer surveys (n=206), and systematic observational assessments to evaluate market integrity and consumer protection in the petroleum retail sector. Key findings reveal systematic fuel under-delivery of 0.704% across measured transactions, with significant variations by fuel type (diesel 47% higher fraud rates than petrol) and location (rural areas showing double urban rates). Consumer experiences strongly correlate with objective measurements, with 87.4% reporting suspicious experiences. The study provides evidence-based recommendations for regulatory enhancement, consumer protection measures, and market transparency improvements to strengthen Timor-Leste's fuel retail sector integrity.