Zimbabwe’s fuel consumption surged to over 2.1 billion litres in 2025, a sharp rise from 1.6 billion litres the previous year, according to new data released by the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA).
The increase points to expanding economic activity across key productive sectors, including mining, agriculture, manufacturing, construction, transport and distribution.
ZERA’s latest figures show sustained growth in both petrol and diesel usage, with diesel dominating demand due to its central role in powering heavy industries, logistics operations and agricultural machinery.
The spike in consumption follows Zimbabwe’s estimated 6.6 percent economic growth rate recorded in 2025. Analysts say the economic rebound, combined with increased mobility and stronger industrial output, has translated into higher demand for energy inputs.
In an interview with the media, yesterday, Economist Chris Mugari said the figures confirm that Zimbabwe’s economic momentum is carrying into 2026, supported by favourable rainfall patterns and robust production prospects.
“This is a reflection that the growth trajectory experienced last year was real. In fact, it is pointing to another year of good times as the current good rains will further spur economic activities,” he said.
Driven by rising production in mining, agriculture, manufacturing, construction and transport, diesel now accounts for more than 60 percent of total fuel consumption.
Economist Dr Moses Chundu said the dominance of diesel, which exceeded 1.5 billion litres, alongside petrol consumption of over 700 million litres, shows that productive sectors are scaling up operations.
“This is why the consumption trends continue to increase as the sectors driving the economy are producing more,” he said.
Fuel usage is projected to climb further, with regulatory authorities forecasting consumption to exceed 2.5 billion litres in 2026, underscoring sustained economic expansion and growing energy demand across the country.
