ZERA hikes LPG prices to US$1.85/kg as fuel costs edge up in April

Household cooking gas cylinder close-up

HARARE – The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has announced a sharp increase in Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) prices for April 2026, raising the cost to US$1.85 per kilogramme, up from US$1.56 in March.

The adjustment comes as part of the regulator’s monthly fuel price review, conducted under the Petroleum (Liquid Petroleum Gas Pricing) Regulations of 2021. ZERA said LPG operators may still sell the product below the prescribed price depending on their “trading advantages,” offering some flexibility in the market.

The LPG increase follows recent fuel price adjustments that have seen both petrol and diesel costs edge upward. Petrol (Blend E5) has been increased to US$2.23 per litre, up from US$2.17, while diesel (50) now stands at US$2.11 per litre, rising from US$2.05. The latest hikes come after two earlier increases implemented on March 4 and March 18, reflecting ongoing pressure in global and regional fuel markets.

In a move aimed at cushioning consumers and businesses, Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube announced the temporary removal of taxes and levies on diesel on April 2. According to ZERA, the intervention prevented a steeper increase, with projections indicating diesel prices could have surged to US$2.65 per litre without the relief measures. The suspended taxes totalling US$0.54 per litre include:

• Excise Duty

• ZINARA Road Levy

• Carbon Tax

• Strategic Reserve Levy

However, petrol taxes remain unchanged.

ZERA has indicated that petrol prices could ease in upcoming reviews, driven by increased ethanol production and a higher blending ratio. The regulator said a shift toward E20 blending, which increases ethanol content in petrol, could lower pump prices by approximately 18 US cents per litre. Energy analysts say the move could provide partial relief to motorists while supporting local ethanol producers.

The increase in LPG prices is expected to affect household energy costs, particularly in urban areas where gas is widely used for cooking. Small businesses, especially in the food sector, are also likely to feel the impact as energy expenses continue to rise.

ZERA LPG prices April 2026