ZERA petrol ceiling set at US$1.57 per litre but some stations report sales above cap

ZERA set Zimbabwe’s petrol ceiling at US$1.57 per litre, but some stations are reportedly charging US$1.59, raising consumer concerns and calls for stronger enforcement (image source)

HARARE — The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) set a maximum petrol price of US$1.57 per litre earlier this month to cushion consumers from global fuel price volatility, but field observations indicate some fuel stations may be charging US$1.59, exceeding the official ceiling.

Major fuel brands including Zuva, Engen, Redan and Total have largely complied with the cap at high-traffic sites. However, reports of overcharging have raised concerns among motorists and consumer watchdogs, who say even minor deviations weaken public trust and compromise the integrity of regulated pricing.

Consumer advocates stress that a price ceiling only works when enforcement is visible and consistent. They are calling on ZERA to step up monitoring and take decisive action against non-compliant retailers. While it is unclear whether the higher prices stem from pricing errors, rounding issues or deliberate margin adjustments, the ceiling is designed as an absolute maximum, not a guideline.

Market analysts highlight enforcement challenges facing the regulator. The fuel retail sector is geographically dispersed, making real-time inspections difficult. Rapid price adjustments at station level and limited consumer reporting mechanisms may also allow temporary breaches to go unchecked.

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Civil-society groups are urging ZERA to clarify enforcement procedures, conduct targeted inspections and establish accessible complaint channels such as a hotline or digital reporting platform. Transparency advocates recommend the publication of periodic compliance reports detailing inspections, violations and penalties.

Retailers say they operate within a complex cost environment shaped by exchange-rate pressures, international price movements and local distribution expenses. Some industry voices have called for a review of the pricing formula to better reflect operational realities while still protecting consumers.

ZERA has not yet publicly addressed the specific reports of petrol being sold at US$1.59 per litre. Observers say the regulator’s response will be critical: firm enforcement would reinforce the credibility of the price cap, while inaction could encourage further non-compliance.

For motorists and businesses, even a two-cent difference accumulates over time, making the issue both practical and symbolic. Consumers are encouraged to compare prices between stations and report suspected breaches as authorities work to ensure the ceiling achieves its intended consumer-protection role.