By Suleman Chitera
Fuel prices for both petrol and diesel have dropped in neighbouring Zambia, offering relief to motorists and businesses, while Malawi continues to grapple with sharply rising fuel costs.
Zambia’s Energy Regulation Board (ERB) announced today that petrol prices have been reduced by 6.82 percent, while diesel prices have gone down by 2.43 percent. The new prices are expected to take effect tonight.
In a statement, the ERB attributed the reduction largely to movements on the international market, noting a 7.89 percent decline in global petrol prices and a 3.80 percent drop in diesel prices. The regulator said these changes, among other factors, created room for the downward adjustment of pump prices.
The development comes in stark contrast to the situation in Malawi, where fuel prices have recently been increased by 41 percent. Malawian authorities justified the hike by citing higher landing costs, driven by foreign exchange shortages, increased import costs, and logistical challenges.
The divergent fuel price movements highlight the differing economic pressures facing the two countries, with Zambia benefiting from favourable international market trends while Malawi continues to struggle with structural and macroeconomic constraints affecting fuel supply and pricing.
Fuel prices remain a critical issue in the region, given their direct impact on transport costs, inflation, and the cost of living.
