Tanzania pledges to provide subsidies to protect consumers affected by rising fuel prices

DODOMA: THE Tanzanian government has said it is continuing to take measures to mitigate the impact of rising fuel prices in the country, including providing subsidies to protect consumers and reduce the burden of fuel costs on economic activities.

The measures are aimed at ensuring that despite ongoing challenges in the global market, Tanzanians continue to access reliable fuel supplies at affordable prices.

According to a statement issued by the Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (EWURA) on November 4, 2026, fuel prices in the country increased in November due to higher shipping and insurance costs resulting from the ongoing Middle East conflict, a region from which Tanzania imports a significant proportion of its fuel.

The increase occurred despite a slight decline in international refined petroleum product prices in October compared to September 2026.

In response to the challenges, the government has introduced subsidies to ease the financial burden on fuel consumers and the wider economy, while continuing to take measures to ensure a reliable supply of petroleum products across the country.

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EWURA announced the new indicative maximum retail prices, which took effect on November 4, 2026. In Dar es Salaam, petrol is selling at a maximum of 4,083/- per litre, diesel at 4,128/- and kerosene at 4,117/-.

Despite the increase, fuel prices in Tanzania remain lower than those in some neighbouring countries within the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

The government said it would continue monitoring developments in the global oil market and take measures to cushion citizens and productive sectors against the impact of rising fuel costs, particularly on production, transportation and overall economic activities.

According to EWURA, the government’s priority is to ensure a reliable supply of petroleum products while keeping fuel prices affordable for consumers and the economy.