Tension in the fuel sector: Anadegas evaluates eliminating card payments
The National Association of Gasoline Retailers (ANADEGAS) is holding a series of decisive meetings this Thursday, given the approaching deadline to implement a radical measure: the removal of card terminals (verifones) at service stations nationwide. If this action is carried out, the establishments would operate exclusively through cash payments.
This stance arises as a pressure measure against the high commissions imposed by payment service providers and banking entities, which, according to the guild, significantly affect the profitability of fuel retailers.
A united front in search of solutions
The Dominican Federation of Merchants (FDC) is actively participating in the meetings, which have lasted throughout the afternoon, adding weight to the gas station owners’ demands. It is expected that, upon concluding the deliberations, the association’s representatives will offer an official statement detailing the steps to be taken following the lack of a satisfactory agreement regarding profit margins.
The threat of eliminating electronic payments resurfaces following the expiration of the deadlines granted to negotiate bank transaction fees, a point that has kept sector operators on edge.
Alofoke DeportesBackground of the conflict
Juan Elías Pérez, president of ANADEGAS, had previously warned that the transition to cash-only payments could be implemented at any time starting next Monday. The measure responds to the sector’s long struggle to reduce operating costs derived from the digitalization of payments at stations.
- Demand for a reduction in bank commissions.
- Search for better profit margins for retailers.
- Possible implementation of cash-only payments due to a lack of consensus.
The fuel industry remains in anticipation of the final resolution adopted by the union, while users await clear definitions regarding the availability of payment methods at the country’s service stations.
