Government Extends Sulphur Limit for Fuel Sold in Kenya

Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui has extended the temporary adjustment of sulphur limits, in petrol and diesel for another six months as uncertainty continues to affect global petroleum supply.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, November 11, Kinyanjui announced that the government had approved a maximum sulphur content of 50 milligrams per kilogram (50mg/kg) for both fuel types from November 2026 to April 2027.

The extension followed a request from the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum and a recommendation by the National Standards Council after a technical assessment of prevailing global fuel supply conditions.

Kinyanjui said the approval covers both automotive gas oil, commonly known as diesel, and automotive gasoline, which is petrol.

The two fuel categories are governed by the East African standards KS EAS 177:2025 for diesel and KS EAS 158:2025 for premium motor spirit.

The CS explained that the decision was influenced by continuing geopolitical uncertainty in the Middle East, which has affected international petroleum supply chains.

He pointed to disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz, a major route through which petroleum products are transported to different parts of the world.

The waterway is an important passage for global energy supplies, meaning prolonged disruptions could affect fuel availability and prices in importing countries such as Kenya.

According to Kinyanjui, extending the temporary sulphur limit will allow the country to access fuel from a wider range of international suppliers.

The government also hopes the adjustment will reduce the risk of shortages at a time when global supply conditions remain uncertain.

Kenya relies heavily on imported petroleum products to meet its domestic demand, making changes in international supply routes and availability a concern for the energy sector.

The extension is expected to remain in force until April 2027, when the six-month period will end, unless the government announces further changes.

The decision maintains the temporary 50mg/kg limit for petrol and diesel as authorities, seek to balance fuel availability with the country’s applicable standards.

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