ERB Cuts Fuel Prices Across the Board for August

Zambians will pay less at the pump this month after the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) announced a reduction in the prices of all petroleum products for August 2026.

In a statement issued on Friday, 31 July 2026, the ERB said petrol would fall to K25.29 per litre, down from K26.15, a drop of 3.29%. Diesel was cut more sharply, easing to K26.86 from K28.11, a reduction of 4.45%. Kerosene now costs K27.02 per litre, down from K28.32, while Jet A-1 falls to K28.71 from K30.27, a 5.15% decrease.

The Board said the revised prices reflect movements in international oil markets and the exchange rate over the review period. The average international price of petrol fell from US$105.82 to US$96.92 per barrel, while Kerosene/Jet A-1 also declined, easing pressure on pump prices. Diesel remained broadly stable, rising marginally to US$126.58 per barrel.

The gains were partly offset by the kwacha, which depreciated against the US dollar over the period, moving from K18.35 to K19.01. The ERB said both factors were weighed in setting the new prices.

According to the statement, signed by Board Chairperson James Banda, the revised prices took effect at midnight on 31 July 2026 and will remain in force until the next review. Detailed wholesale and pump price build-ups for August are available on the ERB website.

The reduction offers welcome relief to households, farmers and businesses, easing transport and production costs across the economy.