The Ministry said in its dispatch that the adjustment follows its monthly review of international market conditions. โThe increase is primarily driven by ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which have pushed Platts prices higher and disrupted the supply chain and logistics of refined petroleum products globally,โ the release stated.
To cushion the impact, Government provided D350,113,201.68 in subsidies for April and will add D185,005,626.00 for May. The two-month total exceeds D500 million.
The Ministry said depot throughout charges, importer margins, and the fuel marking levy have also been reduced to โhelp soften the impact of the increase.โ
It warned that subsidy levels โare unsustainable, as they strain public finances and constrain investments in key sectors such as health, education, agriculture, and infrastructure.โ
The Ministry noted The Gambia is not alone, with โseveral countries across the sub-region and globally experiencing similar pressures in their petroleum sectors.โ
Fuel pricing adjustments โare conducted through a transparent review process informed by prevailing international market trends and domestic economic realities,โ it said, reaffirming its commitment to โsafeguarding national energy security.โ
The new rates put a 20-litre jerrycan of petrol at D2,240 and diesel at D2,400. Commercial drivers, bakers, and vendors say past hikes forced fare and price increases. With tourism tapering and rains near, transport and farm input costs are under watch.
The Ministry did not release April prices, but industry sources confirm Mayโs rates are an increase.
The next review is due in early June. Government is relying on subsidies and levy cuts for now, while warning fiscal space is tightening.
