“The war and instability in the Middle East have already affected Ethiopia’s fuel trade and supply,” Kassahun said during a briefing today. The government continues to spend between 15 and 20 billion Birr a month on fuel subsidies, according to the Trade Minister. Officials said they have also stepped up enforcement against illegal fuel trading. More than 650 individuals, including public employees, have so far been detained in connection with the underground fuel trade, while over 720,000 liters of fuel have been seized, according to the Minister. Kassahun urged the public to conserve fuel, reduce nonessential travel, and make greater use of public transportation, while encouraging the adoption of alternative energy sources.

Source: Ethiopian News March 31, 2026 12:59 UTC