Malawi: Gov’t Raises Fuel Prices; Petrol Up 34%, Diesel 35%, Kerosene 82%

Malawi has announced significant increases in fuel prices, effective Wednesday, April 1, 2026.

Petrol has risen to K6, 672 per litre, up from K4, 965—an increase of 34%—while diesel has increased to K6, 687 per litre from K4, 945, representing a 35% rise.

The price of industrial kerosene has increased from K3, 200 to K5,824 per litre, marking an 82% rise. Jet A-1 fuel at Lilongwe and Bakili Muluzi airports is now priced at K7, 998 and K4, 523 per litre, respectively.

Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, April 1, Acting Chief Executive Officer of Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA), Mr. Dad Chinthambi said the adjustments follow a thorough review under the Automatic Pricing Mechanism and are temporary, subject to further revisions depending on global market trends.

Chinthambi explained that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and the closure of key supply routes, including the Hormuz corridor, have disrupted international petroleum markets, leading to higher landed costs for Malawi.

“The increase comes after a diligent assessment of international market movements. Disruptions in major oil transit routes have pushed up global prices, which directly affect local fuel costs,” he said during the live briefing.

He added that the adjustments were made under the Automatic Pricing Mechanism, which ensures that price changes reflect actual international cost movements while safeguarding supply stability in Malawi.