Mbabane- Motorists in Eswatini will pay more at the pump for petrol from Friday, while diesel users and households that rely on paraffin are set to enjoy significant relief following the latest fuel price adjustment.
In a press statement, the Ministry of Natural Resources amd Energy confirmed that the price of Unleaded Petrol (ULP95) will increase by 90 cents per litre, rising from E25.27 to E26.17 per litre. In contrast, Diesel 50ppm S will decrease by E2.40 per litre from E31.60 to E29.20, while illuminating paraffin will fall by E2.90 per litre from E26.28 to E23.38.
Worth noting, the new prices will take effect at midnight on Thursday, June 4, and become operational on Friday, June 5.
According to the ministry, the adjustments were influenced by developments in international oil markets, where crude oil prices eased to an average of US$104 per barrel during May, down from US$110 per barrel recorded in April. Lower freight rates also contributed to the improved pricing of fuel products.
The ministry explained that global demand trends played a key role in the divergent movements of fuel products. Diesel and paraffin prices benefited from easing demand following the end of the winter season in the northern hemisphere, while petrol prices came under pressure as the onset of summer boosted driving activity and increased consumption.
The adjustment follows a similar announcement in neighbouring South Africa, where petrol prices increased sharply on June 3. South Africa’s Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources raised both 93 and 95 octane petrol grades by 143 cents per litre, while diesel and paraffin registered substantial decreases. Diesel prices fell by as much as 324.96 cents per litre, while wholesale illuminating paraffin dropped by 596 cents per litre.
As Eswatini sources its fuel through South Africa, changes in the neighbouring country’s fuel pricing. Structure often influence local fuel adjustments alongside international market factors.
The latest review is expected to provide some relief to transport operators, farmers and businesses that depend heavily on diesel-powered operations, although private motorists will have to absorb higher petrol costs at a time when household budgets remain under pressure.
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