Duncan Amoah, the Executive Secretary of the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC), has urged the government to consider reducing petrol prices by 30 to 40 pesewas per litre to alleviate the financial burden on consumers. His request comes in light of projected increases in petrol and diesel prices starting September 1, 2026, due to rising global crude oil and refined petroleum product prices.
The latest pricing outlook from the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) forecasts a 4.80% increase in petrol prices and a 2.10% rise in diesel prices. Specifically, petrol is expected to rise to GH¢16.39 per litre, while diesel is projected to reach GH¢17.60 per litre.
Speaking on Channel One Newsroom on Monday, August 31, Mr. Amoah acknowledged the government’s recent efforts to mitigate the effects of rising fuel prices, particularly the GH¢2 per litre reduction in the regulatory margin on diesel. However, he emphasised that a similar intervention should be considered for petrol consumers.
“I am asking if the government can also implement a reduction of 30 to 40 pesewas for the price of petrol because currently, petrol is priced at GH¢16 and diesel at GH¢17. I believe some relief could be extended to petrol consumers so they can also benefit from the government’s support,” he stated.
Mr Amoah said the government’s intervention reflects its sensitivity to the challenges confronting consumers. He further cited the government’s decision to supply crude oil to local refineries as another measure that could help ease pressure on fuel prices.
However, he emphasised the need for sustainable, long-term strategies to reduce Ghana’s reliance on imported refined petroleum products and minimise its exposure to international market premiums. According to him, expanding local refining capacity and allocating a greater share of Ghana’s crude oil to domestic refineries could help stabilise and contain fuel prices over the long term.
