Escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have triggered a significant fuel price adjustment in the Dominican Republic, with the government implementing a RD$10 per gallon increase on gasoline and diesel products this week. The Ministry of Industry, Commerce and MSMEs attributes this decision to what it characterizes as the most substantial oil supply disruption in recorded history, which has driven West Texas Intermediate crude prices up by approximately 70% throughout 2026.
This price revision reflects the challenging economic tightrope the administration must walk between insulating consumers from global market volatility and maintaining fiscal stability. In a simultaneous move demonstrating this balancing act, authorities have allocated RD$1.702 billion in subsidies while electing to maintain current pricing structures for liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and natural gas—essential energy sources for household consumption.
The newly adjusted pricing schedule effective March 21-27, 2026, establishes premium gasoline at RD$305.10 per gallon and regular gasoline at RD$287.50. Diesel products will see similar increases with regular diesel priced at RD$239.80 and premium diesel at RD$257.10 per gallon. Specialty fuels including avtur (RD$323.49), kerosene (RD$366.60), fuel oil #6 (RD$201.38), and fuel oil 1%S (RD$215.86) complete the revised pricing matrix. The government’s selective approach to pricing maintains LPG at RD$137.20 per gallon and natural gas at RD$43.97 per cubic meter, providing targeted relief for residential consumers amid broader energy cost increases.