Investments, Trade and Industry Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui announced the decision on Wednesday, November 11. The approval will remain in force for six months, from November 2026 to April 2027.
The move followed a request from the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum and a recommendation by the National Standards Council after an assessment of petroleum supply conditions.
Kinyanjui said tensions in the Middle East and disruptions along major shipping routes have made fuel sourcing less predictable. He pointed to challenges affecting the Strait of Hormuz, a major oil route.
By retaining the 50mg/kg limit, the government hopes to widen the range of suppliers able to provide fuel that meets the temporary requirements. The measure is intended to reduce shortages and maintain availability for motorists and businesses.
The decision covers automotive gas oil, commonly known as diesel, and premium motor spirit, which is petrol. It does not mean every batch entering Kenya will contain the maximum permitted sulphur level.
Kenya first adjusted the limit on April 30, 2026, raising it from 10mg/kg to 50mg/kg. The extension means the temporary arrangement will continue rather than revert to the earlier requirement.
The ministry said the measure will be reviewed after six months, or sooner if international supply conditions improve.
The announcement comes ahead of the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority's November price review. EPRA is expected to set pump prices for the next cycle, running from November 15 to December 14.
However, the change concerns fuel quality standards and does not automatically lower petrol or diesel prices. Motorists will have to await EPRA's separate announcement for any adjustment at the pump.
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