Stakeholders welcome Government downward review of fuel prices

In a statement, ZERA said it has noted with concern that some individuals and companies are advertising mobile fuel dispensing services through the press and social media. “Stakeholders and the public are advised that ZERA does not have a license category for mobile fuel dispensing, nor does it license trucks to do retail filling of fuel to consumers at their homes or doorsteps, nor at any other undesignated places,” read the statement.

Sikhulekelani Moyo, [email protected]

STAKEHOLDERS have commended the Government for announcing a downward review in fuel price in response to easing tensions in the Middle East, which has restored the flow of energy exports from the region.

In its latest update, the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (Zera) announced that that blend petrol (E20) is now pegged at ZiG52,37 or US$2,08 per litre with diesel (50) at ZiG53,63 or US$2,09 per litre.

This shows a slight decline from US$2,11 and US$2,23 per litre for diesel and blend respectively, which was announced on the second of April 2026.

“The above petroleum prices are effective immediately. Since the last few months, when volatility of fuel supply began, the Government prioritised security of supplies through market-sensitive pricing and reduction of taxes to cushion consumers and the economy at large,” said Zera.

“The price of the blend has also been reduced by the significant increase in the blending levels from E5 to E20.
“Government will continue with this thrust. Therefore, various mechanisms to ensure minimal impact to the economy, as well as guaranteeing continuity of supply, will be vigorously pursued.”

The energy regulator urged members of the public not to engage in any panic buying or hoarding as the country is assured of adequate stocks for a period spanning over three months.

On its part, Zera vowed to closely monitor the situation and take all necessary steps in the two weeks during which the prices are effective.

The Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI) has been tracking the impact of the war in the Middle East, which disrupted the passage of tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, a key maritime route that handles about 20 percent of global oil supplies.

The disruption, described as a historical crisis surpassing the 1970s shocks, had also cut liquefied natural gas (LNG) flows by roughly 20 percent. Prices jumped from US$10 to over US$30 per metric million British thermal unit (MMBtu).

This increased the cost of operation and disrupted supply chains, according to CZI.

Commenting, businessman and former Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce Matabeleland Region vice-president, Mr Louis Herbst, said the adjustment in fuel prices, with diesel easing from US$2,11 to US$2,09 per litre and blended petrol from US$2,23 to US$2,08 per litre, is a welcome development.

He said while the reductions may appear modest, they reflect a measured and responsible response to a highly complex global and regional pricing environment.

“It’s important to acknowledge that significant price cuts, though desirable, are not always feasible under prevailing conditions. Zimbabwe continues to operate within a constrained external environment shaped by factors as experienced through economic sanctions, unfavourable trade dynamics, escrow payment obligations, and elevated international interest rates,” said Mr Herbst.

“These realities inevitably influence the cost structure of fuel and other imported commodities. Against this backdrop, the Government’s efforts to stabilise and gradually reduce fuel prices demonstrate a clear awareness of the economic pressures facing citizens and industry.”

More importantly, Mr Herbst said this signals continued ongoing commitment to engage constructively with international stakeholders to improve Zimbabwe’s economic positioning over time.
He said as the reductions begin to take effect, it is equally critical that the benefits are transmitted across the value chain.

“There is a reasonable expectation that lower fuel costs should translate into reduced logistics expenses and, ultimately, more competitive pricing in the retail sector.

“This pass-through effect is essential to ensure that consumers experience tangible relief,” he added.

“In summary, while the current adjustments may not meet all expectations, they represent a step in the right direction and reinforce the importance of sustained, pragmatic economic management in a challenging global context.”

One of the public transport operators who only identified himself as Mr Ngwenya said the slight decline in fuel prices is a good development that will ease some costs in the sector.
Mr Ngwenya, however, said some fuel stations have only reduced prices by a mere US$0,02, which he said was insignificant.

“We hope the prices will continue to decline until we go back to the original prices we had before the war,” said Mr Ngwenya.

“We also appeal to fuel stations to follow Zera stipulated prices as some only reduced prices with a small amount, which is not we heard from Zera.”