Fresh Twist Ahead of November EPRA Review as Government Announces New Fuel Standards

Kenyans are closely watching the next fuel price announcement by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) after Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui announced changes affecting the quality standards for petrol and diesel.

The announcement comes ahead of the November fuel price review, which is expected to determine how much motorists will pay at petrol stations across the country for the next pricing period.

Under the temporary adjustment approved by the government, petrol and diesel supplied to the Kenyan market can contain up to 50 milligrams of sulphur per kilogram.

The decision covers two petroleum standards: KS EAS 158:2025 for premium motor spirit (petrol) and KS EAS 177:2025 for automotive gas oil (diesel).

Kinyanjui explained that the adjustment followed concerns raised by petroleum sector stakeholders, including the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum, over difficulties sourcing fuel that meets Kenya’s stricter quality requirements.

The government cited disruptions to international petroleum supply chains, particularly those linked to tensions in the Middle East and challenges affecting the Strait of Hormuz.

The ministry said the decision followed technical assessments and consultations with the Kenya Bureau of Standards and the National Standards Council.

The main objective was to ensure that Kenya maintains a reliable fuel supply despite challenges in international markets.

The temporary adjustment marked a return to the previous sulphur limit of 50mg/kg after Kenya introduced stricter requirements of 10mg/kg in August 2025.

The government initially approved the measure for six months, with the possibility of reviewing it earlier if international supply conditions improved.

The adjustment concerns fuel quality rather than pump prices. It does not automatically mean that petrol or diesel will become cheaper or more expensive.

EPRA determines monthly retail prices using several factors, including the cost of imported petroleum products, the exchange rate, distribution costs and applicable taxes.

The November review is therefore a separate process from the government’s decision on fuel standards.

The temporary relaxation also raises environmental concerns because fuel containing higher levels of sulphur produces more harmful emissions when burned.

Sulphur dioxide contributes to air pollution and can worsen respiratory problems, particularly in areas with heavy traffic.

The government must therefore balance the need to maintain adequate fuel supplies with the long-term benefits of cleaner petroleum products.

For motorists, the immediate concern remains the cost of fuel and whether the next EPRA announcement will offer relief to households and businesses.

Transport operators, manufacturers and other fuel-dependent businesses will also be watching the review because changes in petroleum prices can affect operating costs and the prices of goods and services.

As Kenya continues to navigate uncertainty in international oil markets, the government’s temporary standards adjustment remains an important part of its efforts to protect fuel availability.

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