Zimbabwe hikes fuel prices to highest in the region amid Middle East conflict

By APA News

Zimbabwe on Wednesday raised fuel prices by as much as 27 percent, citing the impact of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East on global oil markets.

The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) announced that petrol now costs US$2.17 per litre, up from US$1.71 earlier this month, while diesel rose to US$2.05 from US$1.77.

Officials said the adjustments are part of regular reviews aimed at safeguarding supplies for critical sectors such as mining, agriculture and transport.

“The government is taking deliberate actions to ensure that fuel brought into the country is accessed by all fuel stations, especially those in the far-flung areas of the country,” the ZERA said.

It said the government is working with oil traders to secure alternative supply routes not affected by the conflict, while assuring the public that reserves remain sufficient to cover more than three months.

Authorities also pledged to keep diesel prices lower than market levels to cushion industries reliant on the fuel.

The increase marks the second in recent weeks and reflects mounting pressure on Zimbabwe’s economy as global oil prices surge.

The war involving the United States and Israel against Iran has disrupted shipping lanes and heightened instability across the Middle East, driving up costs worldwide.

Analysts say the conflict has strained supply chains and forced countries dependent on imports to adjust prices frequently to avoid shortages.