Europe plans diesel release as Malawi battles shortages

European countries are considering releasing emergency diesel reserves as global fuel supplies come under pressure, while Malawi continues to face shortages of petrol and diesel.

US President Donald Trump said on Friday that European countries have agreed to release a “massive amount” of diesel from their stockpiles.

According to Reuters, European countries were discussing a proposal to release 50 million barrels of diesel from emergency reserves as they sought to increase fuel supplies amid disruptions in global energy markets.

The development comes as Malawi continues to struggle with fuel availability, with growing domestic demand adding pressure to the country’s supply situation.

National Oil Company of Malawi (NOCMA) officials told the Parliamentary Committee on Budget that persistent fuel shortages are linked to the country’s failure to generate enough foreign exchange.

The officials said Malawi’s fuel consumption has increased to about two million litres a day, with meeting that demand requiring about US$49 million.

NOCMA officials made the disclosure while presenting the company’s performance for the 2025-2026 financial year before the committee.

The issue was raised by Lilongwe Mlodza Member of Parliament Ulemu Nsungama, who questioned the officials about the growing scarcity of fuel in the country.

NOCMA was represented at the meeting by Chief Executive Officer Engineer Emmanuel Matapa, Deputy Chief Executive Officer Micklas Reuben and Director of Finance Sophia Mkandawire.