Government Temporarily Relaxes Fuel Quality Rules Amid Supply Challenges
The Ministry of Trade and Investments has introduced temporary changes to Kenya’s fuel quality standards following supply difficulties linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
In a statement released on Thursday, April 30, 2026, Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui said the government has approved a short-term increase in the allowable sulphur content in fuel.
Under the new directive, the sulphur limit for automotive diesel and premium petrol has been raised to a maximum of 50mg/kg. The adjustment will remain in place for the next six months as the government works to maintain steady fuel supplies across the country.
Kinyanjui explained that the decision was necessary to prevent possible shortages and protect the economy during a period of global supply uncertainty.
“The Ministry of Trade has approved a temporary waiver on the sulphur requirement, allowing a maximum of 50mg/kg for automotive gasoil and premium motor spirit based on previous fuel standards for a six-month period,” he said.
He added that the move is only temporary and is aimed at ensuring the country continues receiving enough fuel while international markets remain unstable.
The Cabinet Secretary noted that the ministry acted after receiving concerns from players in the petroleum industry, who reported difficulties in obtaining fuel that meets Kenya’s stricter current standards.
Before approving the change, the ministry held consultations with experts and regulatory agencies, including Kenya Bureau of Standards and the National Standards Council.
According to Kinyanjui, recommendations from those discussions helped guide the government’s final decision.
He said the ministry carefully considered the interests of Kenyan consumers before approving the temporary adjustment.
Previously, Kenya had adopted tighter sulphur limits of 10mg/kg under the updated fuel regulations KS EAS 158:2025 for petrol and KS EAS 177:2025 for diesel.
While the latest move is expected to ease pressure caused by supply shortages, experts warn that fuel with higher sulphur content may lead to increased air pollution, lower engine efficiency, and higher fuel consumption over time.
Vehicles using fuel with elevated sulphur levels can also experience gradual engine wear, making maintenance more expensive in the long run.
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