Fuel Prices Surge in Tanzania: Significant Increases Noted Across Major Cities
Dar es Salaam, March 2026 – The Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (EWURA) has unveiled new fuel prices for this month, revealing notable increases across multiple fuel types. Diesel has experienced the steepest rise as the new rates come into effect across Tanzania’s primary ports, including Dar es Salaam, Tanga, and Mtwara.
Starting March 4, 2026, consumers in Dar es Salaam will see a change in petrol prices, which have risen from 2,788 Tanzanian shillings to 2,864 shillings per liter—an increase of 76 shillings. Diesel prices have spiked by 157 shillings, now costing 2,858 shillings per liter, up from 2,701 shillings. Kerosene also saw a significant price jump, increasing by 186 shillings from 2,746 shillings to 2,932 shillings per liter.
Tanga followed suit with similar price hikes. Petrol in Tanga is now priced at 2,925 shillings per liter, up from 2,849 shillings. Diesel has risen to 2,919 shillings, a notable increase from 2,762 shillings, while kerosene costs have surged to 2,993 shillings, up from 2,807 shillings.
Mtwara residents will also feel the impact of these increases. The price for petrol has gone up by 75 shillings, diesel by 157 shillings, and kerosene by 187 shillings. Overall, data indicates that diesel and kerosene have seen more pronounced price increases than petrol across all three port cities.
EWURA’s statement, signed by Director General Dr. James Andilile, sheds light on current market trends as well. It notes that fuel prices in the Arabian Gulf market experienced a 6.2% rise for petrol, a 9.8% increase for diesel, and a 7.4% uptick for kerosene this March. Import costs via the Dar es Salaam port showed a slight average increase of 0.07% for petrol but a significant rise of 10.76% for diesel. In contrast, kerosene import costs demonstrated a decrease of 5.41%. Meanwhile, the ports of Tanga and Mtwara did not report any substantial import cost changes.
These adjustments in fuel prices are expected to affect transportation costs, which may have a ripple effect on goods and services throughout the region. Consumers are already bracing for the potential impact on their daily commutes and procurement costs.
The public’s reaction to these price hikes has been mixed, with many expressing concerns over the rising cost of living. Fetching basic needs is becoming increasingly challenging, as the effects of higher fuel costs often manifest in price boosts for various goods and services. Community members in urban areas are particularly worried about the implications for their lifestyles and household budgets.
As the government navigates the balance between regulatory needs and market conditions, the situation remains dynamic. Continuous monitoring of the fuel market is expected in the coming weeks, as further adjustments may occur depending on international oil prices and local economic factors.
Experts suggest that government intervention could be necessary to mitigate the impact on vulnerable populations, as higher transportation costs can disproportionately affect lower-income families.
With the continuous fluctuation of oil prices globally, citizens are encouraged to stay informed and adaptable as the situation develops.
— Reported by Nexio News
