Zimbabwe Fuel Prices Jump as ZERA Raises Petrol to $2.17, Diesel to $2.05

Fuel tanker truck transporting diesel in Zimbabwe

The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has announced a sharp increase in fuel prices for March 2026, citing rising global cost pressures and supply chain disruptions.

In a notice issued on Wednesday, March 18, ZERA said diesel prices have risen from US$1.77 to US$2.05 per litre, while petrol has jumped from US$1.71 to US$2.17 per litre.

The latest adjustment comes as authorities move to prevent supply shortages and arbitrage in the domestic market.

“Cost pressures are piling up and these require that prices be reviewed… to avoid fuel shortages and arbitrage,” ZERA said in a statement.

The regulator added that Zimbabwe currently holds more than three months’ worth of fuel stocks across the supply chain, including reserves linked to the Beira corridor and inland storage facilities.

Despite the price hike, government officials sought to reassure the public that fuel supply remains stable. Authorities are also working with oil traders to diversify supply routes amid ongoing geopolitical tensions affecting traditional supply lines.

“Government is opening up supply routes not affected by the current conflict in the Middle East,” ZERA noted.

In a significant policy shift, the government has approved the importation of diesel by road with immediate effect, adding to existing pipeline and rail delivery systems. The move is expected to improve distribution, particularly to remote areas that often face supply constraints.

State-linked energy firms, including Petrotrade and National Oil Infrastructure Company of Zimbabwe, will play a key role in ensuring fuel reaches all service stations nationwide.

ZERA said efforts are being made to cushion key sectors from the full impact of rising fuel costs, particularly diesel-dependent industries such as mining, agriculture, transport and logistics.

“The price of diesel has been set with a view to mitigate the impact on key sectors,” the authority said, adding that without government intervention, diesel prices could have reached as high as US$2.20 per litre.

Fuel pricing in Zimbabwe is typically reviewed every two weeks, reflecting changes in international oil prices, exchange rate movements and logistical costs. The latest increase is likely to have a ripple effect across the economy, with transport costs, food prices and production expenses expected to rise in the coming weeks.

Zimbabwe fuel prices 2026