Fuel Prices Cut as NPA Threatens Jail for Hoarders

Business

22 December, 2025

Ghanaian motorists are set to enjoy a more affordable Christmas as major Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) announce reductions in fuel prices, effective today, Friday, December 19, 2025.

The price cuts come as the nation anticipates peak travel for the festive season. Leading OMC, Star Oil, triggered the downward revision, significantly lowering prices compared to international competitors.

Star Oil’s standard petrol now sells for GH¢11.35 per litre, down from GH¢11.97, and diesel is priced at GH¢12.45 per litre. Even more appealing discounts are available at select stations, with petrol going for as low as GH¢10.97 and diesel at GH¢11.79 per litre.

GOIL and TotalEnergies have also responded to the market shift. GOIL is selling petrol at GH¢11.99 and diesel at GH¢12.94 per litre, while TotalEnergies has reduced prices to GH¢12.50 for petrol and GH¢12.99 for diesel.

According to Star Oil officials, the price reductions are a direct result of “relative stability in the cedi and a decline in international petroleum product prices,” positively impacting landing costs for bulk distributors.

However, the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has issued a strong warning against any attempts to exploit the situation. The NPA says individuals or companies found hoarding fuel, engaging in illegal dumping of substandard products, or adulterating fuel will face prosecution and potentially lengthy jail terms.

“Under Section 31 of Act 694, individuals or companies found guilty of fuel smuggling, adulteration, or the illegal sale of petroleum products face jail terms ranging from 5 to 10 years, in addition to massive financial penalties,” the NPA stated. Hoarding alone constitutes a criminal offense.

Economists predict these lower fuel costs will help moderate the usual spike in transport fares seen during the Christmas rush, potentially boosting consumer spending and supporting Ghana’s 2026 economic “Reset” agenda, especially with October’s inflation rate dropping to 8.0%.

Here’s a quick look at the current pump prices: