ZERA Cracks Down on Fuel Price Rumours: US$2.05 Diesel & US$2.17 Petrol Caps Remain

Fuel station pump

Harare, Zimbabwe- The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has moved swiftly to quell market anxieties following a wave of social media speculation regarding an imminent fuel price hike. In a definitive statement issued on March 20, 2026, the regulator confirmed that the national fuel price remains unchanged, dismissing rumours of a spike as "unfounded" and warning operators against predatory pricing.

ZERA reaffirmed that the prices gazetted on March 18, 2026, are the only legal rates. Any service station charging above these figures is in direct violation of the law.

Fuel Type	Regulated Price (Per Litre)
Diesel 50	US$2.05
Blend (E20/E10)	US$2.17

To prevent artificial shortages, ZERA has deployed monitoring teams nationwide. The regulator's strategy focuses on three key areas:

• Anti-Hoarding: Teams are inspecting storage tanks to ensure fuel is being sold to the public rather than being held back in anticipation of a price change.

• Mandatory Visibility: All operators must clearly display their prices on pylon signs visible from the road.

• Spot Checks: Unannounced inspections are being conducted to verify that the price at the pump matches the ZERA-regulated cap.

Secretary-General and industry spokespeople have made it clear that "lawfare" and administrative penalties will be applied to rogue operators. Under the Energy Regulatory Authority Act, operators found hoarding or overcharging face fines, suspension of trading licenses, or criminal prosecution.

Consumer Advisory for Motorists:

1. Verify First: Check the displayed price before the attendant begins refuelling.

2. Demand Proof: Always collect and keep your fiscal receipt, as it is the primary evidence required for a successful report.

3. Report Violations: Use ZERA’s official channels or local police if you encounter a service station refusing to sell fuel or charging above US$2.17 (Petrol) or US$2.05 (Diesel).

ZERA fuel price denial 2026