Indonesia has reduced its natural gas exports to Singapore beginning Saturday, citing the need to prioritize domestic consumption. The decision was confirmed by Djoko Siswanto, head of SKK Migas, the Indonesian government agency responsible for overseeing the country’s oil and gas sector.

According to Siswanto, Indonesia is cutting a total of 31 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscfd) from its natural gas deliveries to Singapore. The reductions include 15 million standard cubic feet per day from Natuna, located in Riau Islands, and 16 million standard cubic feet per day from supplies sourced in Sumatra.

This move comes amid ongoing tensions between the two nations related to regional air pollution stemming from widespread wildfires across Indonesia’s archipelago. The haze generated by these fires has repeatedly affected Singapore and neighboring countries, leading to diplomatic disputes and calls for stronger measures to control forest burning.

Indonesia has emphasized its commitment to meeting the increased energy demands of its own population, while Singapore relies on imported natural gas for power generation and other needs. The export curtailments mark a rare adjustment in energy trade between the two countries and highlight the challenges Indonesia faces balancing domestic priorities with its role as a regional energy supplier.

Neither side has provided further specifics on the duration of the export reduction or any potential impact on regional energy markets. The development underscores the complex interplay between environmental concerns and energy security in Southeast Asia.