LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Malawians woke up on Wednesday to a sharp increase in fuel prices, announced by Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA) which has triggered long queues and overnight waits at filling stations as motorists scramble to secure scarce supplies amid ongoing economic pressures.
The unexpected hike has raised fears of possible shortages, prompting the Consumers Association of Malawi (CAMA) to appeal for calm while urging businesses to maintain steady fuel supplies.
CAMA Executive Director John Kapito state this in a statement on Wednesday
The organization warned that panic buying and supply disruptions could worsen the situation, potentially leading to black market activity and even higher costs for consumers.
CAMA emphasized that fuel availability is more critical than price stability during such periods.
“Consumers have historically suffered more from fuel shortages than from high prices,” the association noted, recalling past incidents where motorists spent nights at filling stations due to scarcity.
The association has since called on oil importers to continue bringing fuel into the country to avoid supply gaps.
It also urged transporters and traders not to exploit the situation by inflating prices of goods and services beyond reasonable levels
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The latest price adjustments, announced by MERA are expected to have a ripple effect on the cost of living, particularly through increased transportation costs.
CAMA has therefore encouraged businesses to align any price changes strictly with the actual rise in fuel costs.
The price surge has been linked to global factors, including rising international oil prices and ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly conflicts in the Middle East that have disrupted production and supply routes.
These external pressures have significantly impacted fuel-importing countries like Malawi.
CAMA further stressed the need for cooperation between consumers and businesses during this period, noting that both parties are affected by the economic strain.
“It is important for both consumers and traders to recognize their interdependence in these challenging times,” said Kapito.
The association expressed hope that global conflicts affecting oil production and supply routes will soon be resolved, paving the way for price stabilization.