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Petrol prices have risen sharply in Tanzania for May 2026, with motorists in Dar es Salaam now paying TZS 4,115 per litre, up from TZS 3,820 recorded in April, according to the Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (EWURA).
The TZS 295 increase reflects continued pressure from the global oil market, where rising crude prices and supply disruptions are pushing up import costs.
The new cap prices also show diesel retailing at TZS 4,248 per litre in Dar es Salaam, while kerosene has climbed to TZS 4,677, signalling a broad-based rise across all petroleum products.
Across the country, fuel prices vary depending on distance from the port and transport logistics. In Arusha, petrol is selling at TZS 4,224 per litre, while in Dodoma it stands at TZS 4,194.
Prices are even higher in remote regions, with Mwanza recording TZS 4,300 and Bukoba reaching TZS 4,365 per litre.
Other major towns show similar patterns. Petrol is priced at TZS 4,247 in Mbeya, TZS 4,155 in Morogoro, and TZS 4,176 in Tanga, reflecting relatively lower costs in areas closer to supply routes.
The price differences highlight the role of distribution costs, with coastal regions such as Dar es Salaam and Kibaha continuing to record comparatively lower pump prices.
In contrast, regions in the Lake Zone and western corridor face higher prices due to additional transportation expenses.
EWURA attributes the latest increase to developments in the international oil market, including higher global crude prices and increased freight costs.
Ongoing geopolitical tensions have also disrupted supply chains, affecting the availability and cost of fuel imports.
The rise in fuel prices is expected to ripple through the economy, increasing transport and production costs and placing additional pressure on the cost of living.
With global uncertainties persisting, analysts warn that fuel prices could remain volatile in the coming months, underscoring the need for close monitoring of both international trends and domestic pricing mechanisms.
