An energy expert has predicted an increase in pump prices following the government’s decision to introduce a tax on fuel.
Chiko Mudenda explained that the next monthly pump prices review will be dependent on the government’s resolve to re-introduce taxes on imported fuel effective September 30, 2022.
Mr. Mudenda said the removal of subsidies or tax waivers on Value Added Tax (VAT), excise duty and customs (import) duty on petroleum products may trigger an upward adjustment of pump pricing.
Speaking in an interview with ZANIS, Mr. Mudenda, however ,noted that the mysterious gas leaks discovered early this week on the pipeline between Russia and Europe has no effect on Zambia’s energy network and pricing.
He explained that while Zambia relies on the Middle East for petroleum products, including the gas for cooking, the Russian gas leak crisis may only affect the European market.
Mr. Mudenda added it would be of concern for Zambia if there was a crisis in the Middle East.
“If the position remains the same, then we would say the prices of petroleum products are likely to remain the same or reduce,” Mr. Mudenda indicated.
Meanwhile, another energy expert, Bornface Zulu, said there is a likelihood that prices of petroleum products will increase on the international market as demand is expected to go up.
Mr. Zulu said there is therefore a possibility that pump prices will be affected by the international oil prices as long as the country imports petroleum products.
“The prices that the international oil market is going to offer will be final, so if they are hiked then the prices will be high within the chain. This means that even Zambia is affected,” Mr. Zulu explained.
Government announced the planned re-introduction of VAT on imported petrol and diesel effective September 30, 2022.
And the Ministry of Energy, through the Energy Regulation Board, is expected to announce the monthly petroleum price review tomorrow, September 30, 2022.
Welcome IMF loan. LOAN not Bail out!
Meanwhile you send dec officers to go to a former president’s residence who has immunity, just to intimidate him and to quench your insecurity. A very sad day in Zambian history. Hh lacks manners and is a childish irresponsible fraud. Don’t worry karma has a way of dealing with such.
PF media team in the UK
It doesnt take an expert to realise fuel prices will go up after the introduction of taxes. Please provide better reporting.
Government decisions to boost the economy may rise the cost of living in the short run but may have positive benefits in the long run. I urge the government to just explain reasons for its decisions so that few will complain
bally please weshamo umutima twachula twanaka
i wish i did not vote for bally