Kenya could face fuel supply disruptions after independent petroleum dealers threatened to suspend purchases from oil marketing companies accused of selling fuel above government-regulated wholesale prices.
The Petroleum Outlets Association of Kenya (POAK) and the Kenya Independent Petroleum Dealers Association (KIPEDA) issued the warning in a joint statement on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, saying the dispute was putting independent petrol stations under financial pressure. <Cite refs={[“turn819662view0″,”turn819662search1”]}/>
The associations accused some oil marketing companies of charging independent dealers prices exceeding the maximum wholesale rates published by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA).
According to the dealers, the problem began on October 15, when the latest fuel prices took effect. They said repeated complaints to EPRA and the Ministry of Energy had not resolved the dispute.
The associations have now advised independent dealers across the country to stop buying petroleum products from suppliers charging above the prescribed wholesale price limits.
They warned that some independent stations were already experiencing critical stock shortages, raising fears that more outlets could close if the dispute continues.
Fuel Prices in Nairobi
Under EPRA’s October 15 to November 14 pricing schedule, the maximum wholesale prices in Nairobi were set as follows:
- Super petrol: KSh211.80 per litre
- Diesel: KSh212.60 per litre
- Kerosene: KSh204.79 per litre
The maximum retail prices were set at KSh226.96 per litre for petrol, KSh227.27 for diesel and KSh219.87 for kerosene. <Cite refs={[“turn819662search1″,”turn819662search2”]}/>
The dealers claim that some suppliers have continued charging above the wholesale limits, making it difficult for independent retailers to purchase fuel and sell it at the regulated pump prices without incurring losses.
Dealers Demand Government Intervention
POAK and KIPEDA have called on EPRA and the State Department for Petroleum to investigate the alleged violations and take regulatory action against companies found to be breaching the pricing rules.
The associations warned that failure to resolve the dispute could threaten the survival of independent fuel outlets and disrupt fuel distribution in different parts of the country.
The standoff comes as Kenyan motorists contend with higher fuel prices following the latest EPRA review and the suspension of the fuel price stabilisation mechanism.
Although the dealers have threatened to suspend purchases, a nationwide fuel shortage is not yet confirmed. The scale of any disruption will depend on how the dispute develops and whether the government and the companies involved reach a resolution.
For now, the associations are urging authorities to intervene quickly to restore compliance with the regulated wholesale prices and prevent further stock-outs at independent petrol stations.