Fuel prices in Ghana are set to ease slightly from May 1, 2026. The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) announced lower price floors for petrol and a more significant reduction for diesel. This adjustment comes as part of the NPA's regular bi-monthly review mechanism. It covers the period from May 1 to May 15. The changes reflect shifts in global crude oil prices and currency exchange rates.
Under the new rates, petrol will be priced at GHS 13.25 per litre. Diesel will now stand at GHS 14.30 per litre. Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) will cost GHS 13.02 per kilogramme. Kerosene is set at GHS 16.13 per litre. Marine Gas Oil Local will be GHS 15.41 per litre. Compared to the previous pricing period in mid-April, petrol has seen a marginal reduction of just 2 pesewas. Diesel, however, has dropped significantly by GHS 1.80 per litre.
This price adjustment continues a gradual easing trend. Earlier in April, sharp increases were recorded. Diesel had peaked at GHS 17.10 per litre. This surge was due to rising global crude oil prices and a weaker Ghanaian cedi. Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East contributed to Brent crude exceeding $100 per barrel. This increased import costs for fuel-importing nations like Ghana. In contrast, diesel prices have now dropped by GHS 2.80 from the early April peak. However, they remain higher than levels seen in February and early March.
The government has been working to lessen the impact on consumers. It absorbed part of the pricing burden. From the April 16 pricing window, the government removed selected margins. These included GHS 2.00 per litre on diesel and GHS 0.36 on petrol. It is not yet clear if these fuel subsidies will continue into the new pricing window. The NPA has reminded Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) and LPG Marketing Companies (LPGMCs) of their obligation. They must comply with the announced price floors. However, they are allowed to add their own margins. This means actual pump prices at stations may vary.
The latest price adjustment is expected to bring modest relief to consumers. Transport operators continue to warn about potential fare increases. This could happen if fuel prices remain high for an extended period. Such a move would have wider implications for the cost of living and inflation pressures in Ghana. The new pricing structure takes effect on May 1, 2026. It will be reviewed again in mid-May. The trend of fuel price changes is closely watched by businesses and households. It impacts transport costs and the general cost of goods and services across the economy.