A. M. 
The reference prices for fuels in El Salvador, valid from february 3 to 16, 2026, reflect a reduction in premium and regular gasoline, while diesel registers an increase, according to the Dirección General de Energía, Hidrocarburos y Minas (DGEHM). In the central region, premium gasoline drops to US$3.80 per gallon, regular gasoline to US$3.54, while diesel rises to US$3.44, a trend that is repeated with slight variations in the western and eastern regions of the country.
According to the DGEHM, these variations are due to a combination of international factors that have had a different impact on each type of fuel. In the case of diesel, the rising prices are related to a winter storm in the United States, which caused sustained increases in international prices for crude oil and this derivative, used mainly in freight transport and production.
Gasoline prices fell slightly thanks to the International Energy Agency (IEA) reporting an increase in international gasoline reserves, which put downward pressure on the prices of these products in global markets. This greater availability helped to cushion costs for salvadoran consumers.
Another relevant factor noted by the DGEHM is the United States’ decision to withdraw tariff threats against NATO member countries, which strengthened the stability of the international hydrocarbons market and reduced volatility in the prices of oil and its derivatives.
Reference prices by zone
The prices established for this period include all applicable taxes, as well as contributions to COTRANS, FEFE, and the Special Fuel Tax (IEC). The values by zone are as follows:
• Central Zone:
o Premium Gasoline: US$3.80 (-US$0.03)
o Regular Gasoline: US$3.54 (-US$0.01)
o Diesel: US$3.44 (+US$0.02)
• Western Zone:
o Premium gasoline: US$3.81 (-US$0.03)
o Regular gasoline: US$3.55 (-US$0.01)
o Diesel: US$3.45 (+US$0.02)
• Eastern Zone:
o Premium gasoline: US$3.84 (-US$0.03)
o Regular Gasoline: US$3.58 (-US$0.01)
- Diesel: US$3.49 (+US$0.02)
Controls reinforced at gas stations
The DGEHM reported that it has reinforced checks at gas stations nationwide to ensure that consumers receive the exact amount of fuel and the quality established by technical standards. These inspections seek to protect consumers and ensure transparency in the marketing of petroleum products.
In addition, inspectors constantly monitor the market, and companies that fail to comply with current regulations are subject to penalties in accordance with the law. The institution reiterated that the goal of these actions is for salvadorans to get the most out of their purchase and be able to choose the gas station that offers the best price and service.
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