MBABANE – Motorists will dig deeper into their pockets as fuel prices are set to increase effective midnight on Thursday, May 7, 2026, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy has announced.
According to Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy Lindiwe Mbingo, unleaded petrol (ULP95) will rise from E22.35 to E25.27 per litre while Diesel (0.005% S) will increase from E25.20 to E31.60 per litre.
Illuminating paraffin will increase from E19.50 to E26.28 per litre.
The PS said the adjustment was driven by rising global oil prices, influenced by ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and shipping disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
Crude oil is currently averaging USD 110 per barrel, up from USD 95 in March 2026.
Government noted that petroleum products have been under-recovering, with deficits ranging between E3.90 and E9.04 per litre, resulting in a total industry shortfall of E209 million for April 2026.
This will be covered through the Strategic Oil Reserve Fund, with government absorbing 25% of the under-recovery to cushion consumers.
Motorists have been urged to use fuel efficiently amid continued volatility in global oil markets and exchange rate fluctuations.
