El Salvador fuel prices to rise starting September 1

Fuel prices in El Salvador are set to increase starting September 1, 2026, according to the General Directorate of Energy, Hydrocarbons and Mines (DGEHM). The adjustments, which will remain in effect until September 14, include a $0.10 increase per gallon for diesel, bringing its national reference price to $4.69.

Gasoline prices will also rise by $0.05 per gallon. Superior gasoline will reach $4.96 in the central zone and $4.97 in the western and eastern zones. Regular gasoline will cost $4.63 in the central zone and $4.64 in the western and eastern regions.

The DGEHM attributes these hikes to international market pressures, specifically diesel export restrictions from Russia following attacks on refining infrastructure and volatility caused by tensions between the United States and Iran.

In related economic news, the cost of the basic food basket (CBA) in urban El Salvador reached $261.48 in July, marking its third-highest value since 2001. Conversely, propane gas (GLP) prices are expected to remain stable during September, with 25-pound cylinders maintaining their current rates under both general and focused subsidy programs.