The Haitian government has established a comprehensive regulatory framework for petroleum product pricing through an official decree published in the national gazette “Le Moniteur” on March 27, 2026. This new system introduces a standardized monthly calculation methodology that will determine fuel prices across the nation.
Under the directive from the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF) and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MCI), pump prices will be recalculated monthly based on a transparent cost structure. The finalized prices will be announced through joint ministerial notices on the first day of each month and will maintain nationwide consistency.
The pricing formula incorporates multiple components including the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value of the most recent monthly shipment, complemented by various operational and regulatory expenses. These encompass customs inspection fees, import duties, port charges, specific excise taxes, royalty payments, and calculated margins for both oil companies and distributors. Additional factors include transportation and storage costs, variable excise duties, and a stabilization margin.
A three-tier adjustment mechanism has been implemented to govern price changes:
1. Price stability will be maintained when monthly calculated price variations remain at or below 3%, with no adjustment required.
2. Automatic pump price adjustments will trigger when calculated price fluctuations exceed 3% in either direction, though these adjustments will be capped at a maximum of 10% of the previously published price.
3. Significant calculated price variations exceeding 3% that would necessitate pump price adjustments beyond 10% will require government determination following consultation with the Advisory Council.
This structured approach aims to balance market responsiveness with consumer protection against volatile price swings.