Zimbabwe diesel consumption jumps 13% in first 2 months

Zimbabwe's diesel consumption increased to 210.07 million litres between January and February 2026, rising from 186.38 million litres recorded during the same period in 2025, according to data released by the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA).

The figures represent a 13% year-on-year increase, driven largely by a strong surge in February consumption, which climbed to 109.37 million litres compared to 89.78 million litres in February 2025 - an increase of 22%.

According to Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority, the upward trend reflects shifting demand patterns across the fuel market and growing activity in key productive sectors of the economy.

Industry analysts say diesel consumption is widely regarded as a barometer of economic performance, given its extensive use in mining haulage, agriculture, construction, and heavy transport. The latest increase is therefore seen as an indicator of expanding output in Zimbabwe's core industries.

Mining operations, commercial agriculture, and infrastructure development projects are among the major drivers of diesel demand, as they rely heavily on heavy-duty machinery and logistics networks powered primarily by diesel fuel.

In contrast, petrol consumption declined over the same period. Motorists used 114.13 million litres of petrol in January and February 2026, down from 121.68 million litres in the same period in 2025, representing a 6% decrease.

The divergence between diesel and petrol usage highlights a shift in economic activity patterns, with industrial and commercial transport demand rising while private vehicle fuel consumption shows a slight contraction.