DRC suspends fuel transport price cap for 45 days amid global oil market tensions

Kinshasa March 24, 2026 - The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo has temporarily suspended the cap on transport price differentials for petroleum products for a period of 45 days, as part of measures aimed at stabilizing fuel supply and protecting consumer purchasing power. The decision was taken under instructions from Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka, who directed the ministries responsible for the economy, hydrocarbons, and finance to implement the suspension in response to rising geopolitical tensions affecting global energy markets. Authorities say the measure is intended to anticipate the economic impact of disruptions in international oil supply routes, including key maritime corridors such as the Strait of Hormuz and the Suez Canal. While the suspension could lead to higher logistics costs in the short term, the government has announced compensatory steps, including temporary reductions or suspensions of certain border taxes and royalties to limit pressure on fuel prices. Officials also indicated that additional measures will be implemented to ensure the steady import and distribution of petroleum products via regional supply routes through Kenya and Tanzania, while monitoring freight and insurance costs used to calculate average border pricing. Despite global market volatility, the government has reassured the public that national fuel reserves remain sufficient to meet demand until June, with additional shipments expected in the coming weeks to reinforce supply. The policy follows discussions in a recent Council of Ministers meeting chaired by President Félix Tshisekedi, during which officials emphasized the need for coordinated action to maintain macroeconomic stability in the face of external shocks.