Dominican Republic freezes major fuel prices amid rising global costs

The Dominican Republic's Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Mipymes (MICM) has announced that prices for major fuels will remain unchanged for the week of October 3 to October 9, 2026. This decision includes gasoline (premium at RD$353.10 and regular at RD$317.50), diesel (regular at RD$270.80 and optimal at RD$306.10), liquefied petroleum gas (GLP) at RD$135.20, and natural gas at RD$43.97 per cubic meter.

To maintain these prices despite rising international costs, the government is allocating RD$1,490.9 million in subsidies for the week. Total subsidies for the year have reached approximately RD$37,000 million. Officials estimate that if Middle East conflicts persist, total annual subsidies could reach RD$50,000 million.

The stability comes amid volatility in the global market, where optimal diesel prices have reached historic highs. Additionally, U.S. refinery production capacity reportedly dropped to 92.5% in late September. While major fuels are frozen, some derivatives will see changes: avtur and kerosene will decrease, while fuel oil #6 and fuel oil 1%S will increase.