Fuel Prices in Zambia
ERB Regulated · Updated March 2026
Current petrol, diesel, kerosene, and LPG cooking gas prices in Zambia. Regulated by the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) and reviewed every 60 days.
Petrol
ZMK 28.98
per litre
Diesel
ZMK 26.74
per litre
Kerosene
ZMK 22.50
per litre
Current Fuel & Gas Prices
Petrol (PMS)
Cars and motorcycles
ZMK 28.98/litre
Diesel (AGO)
Trucks, buses, generators
ZMK 26.74/litre
Kerosene (HHK)
Cooking and lighting
ZMK 22.50/litre
LPG Gas (6kg)
Small household cylinder
ZMK 160 – 200
LPG Gas (15kg)
Family size, 2-3 months
ZMK 350 – 420
LPG Gas (45kg)
Commercial/restaurant
ZMK 900 – 1,100
Prices set by ERB. Last adjustment: March 2026. Next review expected May 2026.
Fuel Cost for Common Routes
| Route | Petrol |
|---|---|
| Lusaka → Kitwe (300 km) | ZMK 350 – 450 |
| Lusaka → Livingstone (470 km) | ZMK 550 – 680 |
| Lusaka → Chipata (570 km) | ZMK 650 – 800 |
| Monthly city driving (1,500 km) | ZMK 1,200 – 2,000 |
Fuel Prices in Zambia — What You Need to Know
Fuel prices in Zambia are regulated by the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) and adjusted every 60 days based on international crude oil prices and the ZMK/USD exchange rate. Major fuel stations include Puma Energy (largest network), TotalEnergies, Engen, and Kobil.
Saving on Fuel Costs
Maintain proper tyre pressure (saves 3-5%), avoid aggressive acceleration in city traffic, use AC sparingly, and consider carpooling for Lusaka-Kitwe or Lusaka-Livingstone routes. Diesel vehicles are more economical for long-distance driving. Payment by mobile money (MTN MoMo, Airtel Money) is accepted at major stations.
LPG Cooking Gas
LPG is increasingly popular as charcoal and electricity prices rise. A 6kg cylinder costs ZMK 160-200 and lasts 3-4 weeks for a family. The 15kg cylinder (ZMK 350-420) lasts 2-3 months. Refilling at gas depots is cheaper than buying from retail shops. Major suppliers include ZESCO Gas and private dealers across Lusaka and Kitwe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current petrol price in Zambia?
As of March 2026, petrol (PMS) costs approximately ZMK 28.98 per litre in Zambia. Prices are regulated by the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) and reviewed every 60 days. Prices may vary slightly between urban and rural stations.
How much does diesel cost in Zambia?
Diesel (AGO) costs approximately ZMK 26.74 per litre as of March 2026. Diesel is commonly used for commercial vehicles, buses, and generators during ZESCO load-shedding.
How often do fuel prices change in Zambia?
Fuel prices are adjusted by the ERB every 60 days based on international crude oil prices and the ZMK/USD exchange rate.
How much does it cost to fill a car tank in Zambia?
A typical sedan (45L tank) costs ~ZMK 1,304 to fill with petrol. SUVs (70L) cost ~ZMK 2,029. A Toyota Hilux (80L diesel) costs ~ZMK 2,139.
Is LPG cooking gas available in Zambia?
Yes, LPG is widely available. A 6kg cylinder costs ZMK 160-200 and lasts 3-4 weeks. Refilling is cheaper than new cylinders. Gas cooking is increasingly popular.