Diesel Ethanol Trials Begin In Zimbabwe As Fuel Costs Remain High
Zimbabwe is set to start diesel and ethanol blending amid high fuel prices, with the government confirming on 3 May 2026 that trials are already underway, even as motorists continue to pay more than their regional counterparts.
The development comes as authorities search for ways to manage rising fuel costs and reduce dependence on imports, while neighbouring countries have moved to cushion consumers through tax cuts.
Trials Begin, but No Rollout Timeline Yet
Introducing the development, The Sunday Mail reports that Zimbabwe has begun formal trials to assess the feasibility of blending diesel with ethanol under local conditions.
Energy and Power Development Minister July Moyo said the process is still in its early stages and no implementation timeline has been set.
“We have started experiments and these are being conducted by Green Fuel. At the moment, there are no timelines on when this will begin. However, trials have begun and the results will then determine the way forward.”
He added that increased ethanol production will play a key role:
“The new sugarcane plantations in Chisumbanje, Mwenezi and Chiredzi will also help support the fuel blending projects.”
Officials say the trials are focusing on identifying suitable blending ratios, checking compatibility with vehicle engines, and evaluating long-term viability.
Fuel Prices Remain High Compared To Region
Minister Moyo linked the move to global fuel price increases, particularly following tensions in the Middle East earlier in 2026.
He said:
“This is actually a good initiative, as it helps lower the price of the commodity.”
Referring to petrol blending changes, he added:
“When we shifted to the E20 from E5 in petrol, the price of the commodity decreased by US$0,15 (approx. R2,80).”
Recent figures show blended petrol prices dropping from US$2,23 (approx. R41,60) to US$2,08 (approx. R38,80) per litre. Diesel prices declined slightly from US$2,11 (approx. R39,30) to US$2,09 (approx. R38,90).
Despite these adjustments, Zimbabwe’s fuel prices remain significantly higher than those in neighbouring countries.
Zambia, for example, reduced fuel taxes from 31 March 2026, with petrol around US$1,42 (approx. R26,35) and diesel about US$1,56 (approx. R28,95). Namibia and South Africa have also introduced temporary measures to ease fuel costs.
Economists Call For Wider Reforms
Economist Professor Gift Mugano said blending alone may not resolve Zimbabwe’s fuel pricing challenges.
“The major contribution of the cost of the fuel, 80 percent contribution, is the cost of imported fuel plus shipment costs.”
He added:
“So, before Government added the levies and taxes, our fuel price will already be more than regional prices in Zambia, Botswana, South Africa.”
Professor Mugano said broader reforms, including improving procurement systems and increasing competition in the fuel sector, are needed.
Meanwhile, some motorists say the initiative is worth monitoring.
Harare motorist Takudzwa Hungwe said:
“If it ensures that fuel costs and the cost of other goods and services remain stable, then it is a good move.”
Globally, ethanol blending has mainly been applied to petrol, with only a few countries experimenting with ethanol-based diesel alternatives, often in controlled environments such as public transport fleets.
Zimbabwe’s programme remains at the trial stage, with no confirmed rollout timeline.
The post Zimbabwe To Start Blending Diesel And Ethanol Amid High Fuel Prices appeared first on iHarare News.
