Tinotenda Hove – Zimbabwe has implemented its third fuel price increase in just one month, sparking alarm among motorists, transport operators, and the general public.

The first hike took effect on 4 March, followed by a second on 18 March, with the latest adjustment coming into effect on 2 April 2026. According to a notice issued Thursday evening by the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA), petrol now costs US$2.23 per litre, while diesel has risen to US$2.11 per litre. Previously, petrol was US$2.17 per litre and diesel US$2.05 per litre.

ZERA explained that the government has attempted to cushion the blow for diesel users. “The Government has removed all taxes and levies on diesel, valued at $0.54, to keep it at $2.11 instead of the $2.65 it could have reached,” the Authority stated.

The regulator also outlined that fuel stocks remain sufficient despite global pressures.

“The Government, through ZERA, continues to monitor the security of supply of petroleum products in the market,” ZERA said. “There are enough stocks starting from Beira and inland storage facilities, with more than three months’ supply cover.”

ZERA noted that rising global costs have forced the latest adjustment. “Since the last price review, FOB price for diesel has gone up by 33.16%, and for petrol by 5.96%. While Government ensures security of fuel supply, cost pressures are piling up, and these require that prices be reviewed for two weeks to avoid fuel shortages and arbitrage,” the statement read.

To further ease supply issues, the government announced measures to improve distribution.

“Government, through its companies, Petrotrade and NOIC, will ensure fuel is accessed by all stations, especially those in remote areas,” ZERA added. “As a way to open up other avenues for the importation of diesel, Government has approved the importation of diesel by road, in addition to pipeline and rail.”

ZERA also hinted at a possible easing of petrol costs in future reviews. “The price of petrol is expected to decrease in the next review as it coincides with commencement of ethanol production. Increasing the blending mandate to E20 contains the petrol price by around 18 cents,” it said.

The regulator emphasized that the latest diesel price was calculated to mitigate impacts on key sectors. “The new price of diesel has been set with a view to mitigate the impact of the increase to the mining, agriculture, haulage services and passenger transport sectors,” ZERA said. “Government will endeavour to keep the price of diesel lower than what it ought to be. Without Government intervention, the price of diesel would have been US$2.65 per litre.”

The repeated increases have provoked concern across the country, with critics warning that sustained fuel hikes risk deepening economic strain on businesses and ordinary Zimbabweans.