Malawi govt warns gas station operators for sticking to old fuel prices
Malawi government through the ministry of information, tourism and culture has warned some fuel service stations for selling fuel prices at old prices.
The Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (Mera) on Wednesday announced a reduction in fuel prices and other petroleum products effective Thursday, September 4.
Despite reduction in prices, according to government, some gas service stations were still selling fuel at old prices.
“This is illegal as it contravenes Section 36 (1) of Liquid Fuels and Gas (Production and Supply) Act, and Section 30 of Energy Regulation Act, all which empower the Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA) to direct the adjustment of fuel prices,” said Kondwani Nankhumwa, minister of information.
He therefore called on fuel service stations to adjust their pump prices forthwith.
“Any Service Station contravening this directive will be closed forthwith and subsequent legal action will take its course in accordance with Section 2 of Liquid Fuels and Gas (Production and Supply) Act, which imposes a fine of K50 million plus imprisonment to ten years,” he said.
He also advised the general public to report any Fuel Service Station that has not reduced prices as directed on the following numbers: 0 888 838 151, 01 774 103, 01 775 810 and 01 774 135.
Petrol now sells at K796.20 from K839 per litre; diesel at K805.50 from K853.40 per litre. The price for paraffin remains at K719.30.
MERA also announced a reduction in the cost of aircraft fuel, JET A1, from K719.39 to K708. 64 at Kamuzu International Airport, and K715.21 to K700.28 at Chileka Airport.
The energy regulator attributed the price reduction to stability of the local currency against the US dollar and reduced importation costs.
