The Energy Regulation Board (ERB) has announced a reduction in the domestic pump price of diesel for April 2025, citing favorable market conditions. According to ERB Board Chairperson James Banda, the price of diesel will decrease from K32.54 per litre to K30.23 per litre, effective midnight on March 31, 2025. This adjustment is part of the board’s monthly price review mechanism aimed at ensuring fair fuel pricing in response to global and local market trends.
However, Mr. Banda clarified that the prices of petrol, kerosene, and Jet A-1 will remain unchanged for the month of April 2025. He explained that the wholesale price changes for these products did not exceed the required trigger band threshold of 2.50%, which is necessary to warrant an adjustment. As a result, the prices of petrol, kerosene, and Jet A-1 will remain at K34.98 per litre, K29.56 per litre, and K32.51 per litre, respectively.
In his statement, Mr. Banda emphasized the ERB’s commitment to ensuring that fuel prices reflect the actual market conditions while maintaining stability in the energy sector. He further stated that these prices would remain in effect until the next review, at which point any significant fluctuations in global oil prices, exchange rates, and other economic factors will be taken into account.
The reduction in diesel prices comes as a relief to various sectors of the economy, including transportation and logistics, which rely heavily on diesel for operations. Business stakeholders have welcomed the development, noting that it may help reduce operating costs and mitigate inflationary pressures on goods and services that depend on fuel for distribution.
The ERB conducts monthly fuel price reviews based on the movement of international oil prices and the exchange rate of the Zambian Kwacha against the US Dollar. These reviews help to ensure that consumers pay a fair price for fuel while maintaining the sustainability of fuel supply in the country.
While the reduction in diesel prices is seen as a positive move, some analysts have called for more long-term strategies to ensure price stability in the energy sector. Suggestions include diversifying energy sources, strengthening strategic fuel reserves, and improving refinery capacity to reduce dependency on imported fuel products.
The ERB continues to monitor the global and local energy markets closely and will provide updates on any further adjustments in fuel prices as necessary. Consumers are encouraged to stay informed through official ERB communications and to adhere to fuel pricing regulations as set by the regulatory authority.
By Best Jere
