Hundreds of motorists are heading to West Indies Oil Company Ltd (WIOC) gas stations across Antigua this morning as several other service stations remain closed amid industrial action by operators over their profit margins.

The WIOC stations at Friars Hill, Market Street, English Harbour, Airport and Barnes Service Station remain open, providing motorists with access to gasoline and diesel as the strike takes effect.

The closures have prompted increased activity at the WIOC locations, with motorists seeking fuel as uncertainty remains over how long the industrial action will continue.

According to Prime Minister Gaston Browne, WIOC has been instructed to prioritise fuel supplies to its stations that remain operational in an effort to ensure there is adequate fuel available to the public.

The industrial action follows reports Monday night that gas station operators were preparing to close their stations as part of efforts to secure an increase in the profit margins they receive on fuel sales.

Browne confirmed Monday night that the Government had become aware of the planned action, although he said no formal notice had been received from dealers at the time.

By Tuesday morning, several service stations had followed through with the planned closure, leaving WIOC stations among the locations available to motorists seeking fuel.

The dispute comes amid rising international fuel prices and ongoing discussions over the margins received by service station operators on gasoline and diesel sales.

With several stations now closed, WIOC’s continued operations are expected to help maintain fuel availability and reduce the impact of the industrial action on motorists.

It remains unclear how many service stations are participating in the strike or how long the action will continue.