By Masauso Mkwayaya
Cabinet has approved the piloting of bulk importation of petrol as part of measures intended to lower fuel pump prices and strengthen security of supply.
The decision was taken during the 25th Cabinet Meeting held on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at State House, chaired by President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA.
In a statement to ZNBC News, Chief Government Spokesperson CORNELIUS MWEETWA said the bulk importation of petrol will be piloted over a four-month period through a limited bidding process.
Mr. MWEETWA, who is also Information and Media Minister, said the initiative is expected to enable the country to benefit from lower average costs per unit, improved access to favourable financing terms, stronger risk management and greater operational efficiency.
Cabinet observed that by pooling demand from multiple Oil Marketing Companies, the successful supplier will be better positioned to negotiate improved international purchasing terms, cut per-unit import costs and streamline distribution logistics.
Mr. MWEETWA said Government expects the economies of scale arising from the pilot programme to reduce pump prices, improve supply chain efficiency, secure fuel supply and allow full utilisation of fuel storage depots.
Meanwhile, Cabinet has also approved the establishment of the Constituency Energy Benefit Trust.
The Trust will provide a legal framework for the ownership, governance and management of equity held by the Minister of Finance and National Planning in the Zambia National Energy Corporation Limited –ZNEC- on behalf of constituencies.
ZNEC was incorporated as a Special Purpose Vehicle to implement the Presidential Constituency Energy Initiative Programme.
Cabinet agreed that the Trust is necessary to ensure a clear and transparent framework for the ownership and management of constituency-held equity in ZNEC.
The decisions form part of Government’s broader policy and legislative efforts to advance national development for the benefit of citizens, according to the statement issued by Mr. MWEETWA.
