Drivers in Costa Rica had no problems filling up on gasoline or diesel this morning, despite a strike and work stoppage in effect by fuel tankers.

The Ministry of the Environment refused to give fuel distributors and transporters an extension to certify their tankers. The operators of these vehicles have been requesting more flexibility and leniency by the Ministry when it comes to obtaining certifications and licenses. They claim that the required standards of quality are too strict and unreasonable.

The executive director of the Chamber of Fuel Entrepreneurs, Jose Miguel Masis, told Radio Reloj 94.3 FM yesterday that they have little recourse available against the Ministry, and in fact that government agency has granted four extensions since 2010 to tanker operators in order to make improvements to their vehicles and get their certifications. Those four extensions are the maximum allowed by law in Costa Rica. The Chamber is now demanding a one-year certificate for all trucks until they can meet the requirements.

There are over 900 fuel tankers in service to meet the Ticos’ growing thirst for fossil fuels. Less than 150 certificates have been granted this year, and many trucks have been operational for more than 40 years. The age of these tankers is what prompts more requirements and standards of quality. New fuel trucks easily meet the environmental requirements.

The tanker operators and gas station owners are firm in their demands, and so is the Ministry. The impasse has prompted a stoppage of fuel tanker operations today, although gas stations are open and doing business as usual.

Some gas stations reported brisk activity yesterday from alert motorists who wanted to make sure their tanks were filled today, but since fuel tankers were circulating on Monday the alarm turned into a windfall for gas station owners.