Saturday, 2 May 2026Zimbabwe's Premium Editorial
Zimbabwe Opens New Fuel Import Routes as ZERA Raises Petrol and Diesel Prices Amid Global Oil Pressure
HomeNewsbreaking

Zimbabwe Opens New Fuel Import Routes as ZERA Raises Petrol and Diesel Prices Amid Global Oil Pressure

Z
ZimCelebs·March 19, 2026·2 min read

Zimbabwe has opened new fuel import routes to maintain supply amid rising global oil prices. ZERA increased petrol and diesel prices while confirming adequate fuel stocks. Government measures aim to cushion consumers and support key economic sectors.

The Government of Zimbabwe has introduced new fuel supply routes and strengthened distribution systems to ensure continued availability of fuel as global market pressures push prices higher.

This comes as rising global fuel prices, driven by conflict in the Middle East, have disrupted supply chains and increased the cost of petroleum products on the international market.

In its latest update, the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) announced new fuel prices, with petrol now at US$2.17 per litre, up from US$1.71, while diesel increased to US$2.05 per litre from US$1.77.

Advertisement

ZERA said the Government is actively pursuing alternative fuel supply routes to reduce the impact of disruptions linked to the Middle East conflict.

To cushion consumers, authorities recently reduced some taxes and levies on fuel, helping to limit the extent of price increases that would have followed global trends.

The Government has also approved the importation of diesel by road with immediate effect, adding to existing pipeline and rail transport systems.

“Working with oil traders, the Government is opening up supply routes not affected by the current conflict in the Middle East,” ZERA said in a statement.

The regulator said Zimbabwe currently has sufficient fuel stocks, with more than three months’ supply cover from Beira and inland storage facilities, along with additional shipments already in transit.

Authorities are also working to ensure fair distribution of fuel across the country, including remote areas, through State-owned companies Petrotrade and NOIC.

ZERA noted that despite stable supply, global cost pressures continue to increase, making regular price reviews necessary to prevent shortages and market imbalances.

The regulator added that diesel pricing is being managed to support key sectors such as mining, agriculture, transport and other essential industries.

“Without Government intervention, the price of diesel would have been US$2.20 per litre,” ZERA said.

Zimbabwe, like other fuel-importing countries, remains affected by global oil market changes, including supply disruptions and reduced output in key oil-producing regions.

Authorities said the combination of diversified import routes, strategic reserves and policy measures is aimed at maintaining fuel availability while managing the impact of rising global energy costs.

Advertisement

Comments

Leave a comment

Comments are moderated before appearing.

Advertisement

Next for you

Hand-picked stories you might have missed