Fuel Prices in Zambia
Current petrol, diesel, kerosene, and LPG cooking gas prices in Zambia. Set by the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) and reviewed monthly.
March 2026 saw fuel price reductions — petrol dropped from K27.88 to K26.61/litre (-4.6%) and diesel from K24.50 to K23.25/litre (-5.1%). The reductions were driven by Kwacha appreciation against the US dollar in February 2026, offsetting rising international oil prices.
Petrol
K 26.61
per litre
Diesel
K 23.25
per litre
Kerosene
K 21.06
per litre
Current Fuel & Gas Prices
Petrol (PMS)
Cars and motorcycles — reduced from K27.88
K 26.61/litre
Diesel (AGO)
Trucks, buses, generators — reduced from K24.50
K 23.25/litre
Kerosene (HHK)
Cooking and lighting — reduced from K22.24
K 21.06/litre
LPG Gas (6kg)
Small household cylinder — 3-4 weeks use
ZMK 160 – 200
LPG Gas (15kg)
Family size — lasts 2-3 months
ZMK 350 – 420
LPG Gas (45kg)
Commercial/restaurant use
ZMK 900 – 1,100
Prices set by ERB. Effective 1 March 2026. Next review expected April 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.
Fuel Price Questions
What is the current petrol price in Zambia?
As of March 2026, petrol (PMS) costs K26.61 per litre, reduced from K27.88 effective midnight 28 February 2026. Prices are set by the ERB based on international crude oil prices and the ZMK/USD exchange rate. The March reduction was driven by Kwacha appreciation against the dollar in February 2026.
How much does diesel cost in Zambia?
Diesel (AGO) costs K23.25 per litre as of March 2026, reduced from K24.50. Diesel powers most commercial vehicles, buses, and is essential during ZESCO load-shedding for backup generators.
How often do fuel prices change in Zambia?
The ERB reviews fuel prices monthly (changed from the previous 60-day cycle). Adjustments are announced at month-end and take effect the following day. Prices are uniform nationally — the same rate applies in Lusaka, Kitwe, Livingstone, and all other towns.
How much does it cost to fill a car tank in Zambia?
At K26.61/litre: a typical sedan (45L tank) costs ~K1,197, an SUV (70L) costs ~K1,863, and a Toyota Hilux (80L diesel tank) costs ~K1,860 at K23.25/litre. Monthly city driving (1,500 km at 10 km/L) costs approximately K4,000 for petrol.
Is LPG cooking gas available in Zambia?
Yes, LPG is widely available in urban areas. A 6kg cylinder costs ZMK 160-200 and lasts 3-4 weeks for a family. Refilling at gas depots is cheaper than exchange cylinders at retail shops. LPG cooking is increasingly popular as charcoal prices rise and deforestation concerns grow. Major suppliers include Oryx Energies, Puma, TotalEnergies, and local dealers.