Zimbabwe motorists are facing another fuel price increase after the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) announced new petroleum prices for March 2026.
The latest review sees diesel now pegged at US$2.05 per litre, up from US$1.71, while petrol (Blend E5) has risen to US$2.17 per litre, from US$1.77. In local currency, diesel has jumped to ZWG52.19/litre, with petrol now at ZWG55.13/litre.
ZERA said the increase is driven by mounting cost pressures in the global market, warning that failure to adjust prices could lead to fuel shortages and arbitrage in the local market. The regulator maintained that price reviews will continue on a two-week cycle to stabilise supply.
Authorities moved to reassure the nation that there is adequate fuel supply, with stocks covering more than three months available from Beira and inland storage facilities. Government is also working with oil traders to open alternative supply routes not affected by the ongoing Middle East conflict.
In a notable policy shift, government has approved the importation of diesel by road with immediate effect, adding to existing pipeline and rail options. This is expected to improve accessibility, particularly in remote areas.
Officials also indicated that diesel prices have been deliberately kept lower to cushion key sectors such as mining, agriculture, transport, and haulage. Without government intervention, diesel could have reached US$2.20 per litre.
State-linked entities like Petrotrade and NOIC have been tasked with ensuring fair distribution across the country.
The latest hike marks a sharp increase from early March levels, placing additional pressure on consumers already grappling with high living costs, while signalling continued volatility in Zimbabwe’s fuel pricing landscape.
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