Eswatini fuel prices climb 51.2%
The Ministry of Economic Planning and Development warns of rising production costs and weakened export competitiveness.
Fuel prices in Eswatini have risen by 51.2 per cent since April 2026, increasing production costs and weakening export competitiveness. The Ministry of Economic Planning and Development reported these pressures in its FY2026/27 Second Quarter Performance Report, attributing the increases to the Middle East crisis disrupting global supply chains and driving up crude oil prices. This situation poses a challenge for Eswatini, which relies on imported energy.
Despite rising fuel costs, Eswatini's economy grew by 6.5 per cent in the second quarter of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025. All three major economic sectors showed positive performance. The primary sector grew by 9.3 per cent, driven by agriculture and mining. The industrial sector expanded by 11.6 per cent, with manufacturing up 14 per cent and electricity supply up 21.8 per cent, though construction contracted by 7.9 per cent.
The services sector expanded by 4.1 per cent, with accommodation and food services growing by 19.6 per cent and information, communication, and technology seeing a 55.6 per cent expansion. Professional services also increased by 8.1 per cent. The report highlights both the economy's resilience and emerging vulnerabilities.
Why it mattersEswatini's economy faces mounting cost pressures from increased fuel prices, impacting business competitiveness and household purchasing power.