Tanzania Fuel Prices Rise as Import Costs Hit October Caps

Fuel prices in Tanzania will rise above September levels from today, Wednesday 7 October, with consumers in Mtwara facing the highest October price caps as the cost of imported petroleum products increases.

The Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (EWURA) set the new rates after renewed conflict in the Middle East disrupted oil production, supply and transportation in September. The new prices are expected to take effect on 7 October.

Petrol will have a maximum price of 4,170 Tanzanian shillings per litre in Mtwara, compared with 4,123 shillings in Tanga and 4,057 shillings in Dar es Salaam.

Diesel will also cost more under the new caps, reaching 4,199 shillings per litre in Mtwara, 4,152 shillings in Tanga and 4,086 shillings in Dar es Salaam.

For kerosene, the maximum prices are 4,180 shillings in Mtwara, 4,133 shillings in Tanga and 4,067 shillings in Dar es Salaam.

Imported fuel faces higher global costs

EWURA said international prices for refined petroleum products rose after the Middle East conflict affected oil production, availability and transportation.

Tanzania buys a large proportion of its petroleum products from the region, making international price changes important to its local fuel market.

The regulator said the October caps are above September levels. It did not give the September prices or state the percentage increase.

The government is monitoring the international oil market and taking measures to maintain fuel supplies at affordable prices, EWURA said.

The new prices are maximum rates. Oil companies can charge less if they choose, but they must not go above the approved caps or below the applicable floor prices.

EWURA warned that traders who break the pricing rules will face legal action.

Filling stations must also display their prices clearly and give customers receipts. Each receipt must show the station's name, purchase date, type of fuel and price per litre.

The new rates put Mtwara at the highest of the three listed price levels, with Dar es Salaam recording the lowest caps for all three petroleum products.