The government has extended the temporary adjustment of sulphur limits in petrol and diesel by a further six months in a move aimed at safeguarding the country’s fuel supply amid continued disruptions in global petroleum markets.
In a press release dated November 11, 2026, the Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry announced that the extension allows a maximum sulphur content of 50 milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg) in both automotive gasoline (petrol) and automotive gas oil (diesel).
The decision, made following a request from the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum and a recommendation by the National Standards Council, is intended to widen the range of available fuel sources that meet Kenya’s temporary requirements.
According to the ministry, the extension follows a technical assessment of ongoing geopolitical uncertainty in the Middle East and disruptions affecting global petroleum supply chains, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz.
The government said the measure is intended to protect the country against potential fuel shortages and maintain uninterrupted availability of petroleum products.
“This is a temporary measure intended to maintain uninterrupted fuel availability and protect economic stability,” the statement reads.
The ministry further indicated that the adjustment will be reviewed at the end of the six-month period or earlier if global petroleum supply conditions improve.
The announcement was signed by Investments, Trade and Industry Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui, who said the extension was informed by the need to respond to changing international supply conditions.
The move comes as Kenya seeks to cushion its domestic petroleum market against uncertainties in the international oil supply chain.
