Benin mini-stations sell fuel at higher price
Formalized kpayo sellers charge 850 FCFA per litre, 100 FCFA more than official stations.
Mini-stations in Benin, which formalize the informal "kpayo" fuel trade, are selling gasoline at 850 FCFA per litre. This price is 100 FCFA higher than the 750 FCFA per litre charged at official service stations, according to a report by 24 Heures au Bénin on November 3, 2026.
The official fuel price of 750 FCFA per litre has been in effect since October 8, 2026, as stated by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce. While informal "kpayo" sellers previously traded fuel around 800 FCFA, these new mini-stations now compete with approved stations on price, despite their aim to formalize and secure sales.
Despite the higher price per litre, these mini-stations offer customers the advantage of buying small quantities, with transactions starting as low as 300 FCFA. This flexibility contrasts with some service stations where smaller purchases may not be possible. Some attendants are reportedly trying to obscure the displayed prices from surprised customers.
Why it mattersBenin residents buying fuel from informal sellers now face higher prices at formalized mini-stations, impacting their daily transport costs.