Tanzanian motorists are set to feel some relief at the pumps this month after the Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (Ewura) announced lower cap prices for petroleum products, effective Wednesday, September 3, 2025.
In Dar es Salaam, petrol will now sell at TZS 2,807 per litre, a decrease of TZS 98 from August.
Diesel has dropped to TZS 2,754, while kerosene stands at TZS 2,774. Other regions are seeing similar reductions: in Tanga, petrol is TZS 2,868, diesel TZS 2,816, and kerosene TZS 2,835; in Mtwara, petrol is TZS 2,899, diesel TZS 2,847, and kerosene TZS 2,866.
The downward revision brings modest but significant relief to households and businesses. Fuel costs affect transport fares, goods prices, and production costs, particularly for diesel-dependent sectors like public transport, agriculture, and logistics.
Ewura said the price adjustments reflect changes in international oil markets and the local currency. Free on Board (FOB) prices in the Arab Gulf fell by 0.2 percent for petrol, 5.5 percent for diesel, and 3.5 percent for kerosene.
The applicable exchange rate for September also fell by nearly 4 percent, reducing import costs. Consequently, wholesale prices in Dar es Salaam are now TZS 2,667.12 per litre for petrol, TZS 2,614.81 for diesel, and TZS 2,634.35 for kerosene.
However, shipping costs continue to pose challenges.
At Dar es Salaam Port, shipping premiums rose sharply—20.73 percent for petrol, 7.75 percent for diesel, and 2.62 percent for kerosene. Tanga Port, in contrast, recorded declines of 12.66 percent for petrol and diesel, while Mtwara’s premiums remained stable.
The variations underscore logistical hurdles that can influence regional fuel availability and costs.
Ewura has reiterated that selling above the official cap prices is illegal. Retailers are required to display prices prominently and issue receipts using Electronic Fiscal Pump Printers (EFPPs). The regulator urged consumers to keep receipts as proof of purchase and report any overcharging or substandard fuel.
While the September reductions will ease household budgets and business operations, analysts warn that fuel prices remain vulnerable to global volatility. Geopolitical tensions, currency swings, and shipping disruptions could quickly reverse the gains at the pump.
For now, motorists and businesses alike can enjoy temporary relief as fuel prices retreat, offering a much-needed breather amid rising living costs.
