Fuel Prices Surge in Afghanistan; Petrol Up AFN 9 in Two Days

Fuel prices have risen sharply across Afghanistan, raising concerns among residents and drivers.

In Kabul’s markets, the price of one liter of petrol has increased from AFN 66 to AFN 75 in just two days, marking a rise of AFN 9. The price of diesel has also climbed from AFN 65 to AFN 70 per liter.

Drivers say the sharp increase in fuel prices has not been accompanied by higher transport fares. “Fuel prices have gone up, but transport fares have not. If we raise fares, passengers refuse to pay, and if we continue charging the current rates, we suffer losses,” said Wazir, a driver.

Another driver, Ajmal, called on traders to increase fuel imports to help stabilize prices. “Yesterday diesel was AFN 65, but today it has reached AFN 70. This has created many problems for us,” he said.

The recent increase is attributed to several factors, including Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil storage facilities, reduced fuel supplies in the market, and the ban on imports of 80-octane fuel.

Tawakul Ahmadyar, former head of the Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Investment, said fuel shortages remain a concern and warned that prices could rise further. However, he added that efforts are underway to keep prices within a reasonable range.

Meanwhile, the state-owned Oil and Gas Company says it is working to reduce the economic burden of rising fuel prices on the public. Officials also say market monitoring continues and that legal action will be taken against violators.

Company spokesman Kochi Yousafzai said the company is using all available resources to help prevent further economic pressure on citizens caused by higher fuel prices.

Although global oil and gas prices have declined following the easing of tensions in the Middle East, the reduction has not yet been reflected in Afghanistan’s markets, where fuel prices continue to rise.