Motorists will keep buying fuel with a higher sulphur content for another half year after the government extended a temporary relaxation of the limits, blaming continued disruption in global petroleum supply chains.
Under the arrangement, the maximum sulphur content in both automotive gas oil (diesel) and premium motor spirit (petrol) remains at 50mg/kg. The limits are applied under the Kenyan standards KS EAS 177:2025 and KS EAS 158:2025 respectively.
Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui said the extension followed a technical assessment of the disruptions, with particular focus on the geopolitical situation in the Middle East and tensions around the Strait of Hormuz.
According to the ministry, the adjustment widens the range of sources from which Kenya can import fuel, lowering the risk of shortages on the local market.
Kinyanjui described the measure as strictly temporary, saying it is meant to keep fuel flowing without interruption and protect the economy. He added that it will be reviewed when the six months end, or earlier if global supply conditions improve.
The announcement comes days before the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) carries out its monthly fuel price review on November 14, 2026. That timing places the decision within the wider picture of Kenya’s short-term fuel pricing and supply management.
The government stressed that no permanent change to fuel quality standards has been proposed. It said the relaxation will lapse or be revisited once prevailing supply conditions allow a return to the standard limits.
Source; https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1DuA1idqrK/
Leave a Reply