The price of diesel fuel has once again become a major concern for businesses that rely on diesel engines for daily operations. Entering 2026, several major fuel stations in Indonesia, from Pertamina and Shell to BP, have adjusted their prices, directly affecting diesel engine operating costs across various sectors.
Why Did Diesel Prices Rise in 2026?
The increase in non-subsidized diesel prices in 2026 was driven by several main factors:
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A Surge in Global Oil Prices
Global crude oil prices climbed above US$100 per barrel due to rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Since non-subsidized fuel prices in Indonesia follow global market fluctuations, this increase was immediately reflected at fuel stations.
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Weakening Rupiah Exchange Rate
The weakening of the rupiah against the US dollar also pushed up the cost of imported oil, which ultimately affected domestic pricing.
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Routine Early-Month Adjustments
Pertamina and private fuel operators regularly review and adjust non-subsidized fuel prices at the beginning of each month based on market pricing formulas. The April–May 2026 period saw several adjustments within a short time.
Impact of Higher Diesel Prices on Diesel Engine Users
The rise in diesel prices, especially Dexlite and Pertamina Dex, has had a significant impact on various diesel engine users:
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Agriculture and Irrigation
Farmers using diesel engines for irrigation water pumps are feeling the sharp increase in operating costs. The increase from Rp 23.600 to Rp 26.000 per liter for Dexlite means fuel costs rose by around 10% in one month.
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Fisheries and Fishing Boats
Fishermen who rely on diesel engines to power their boats are also affected. The cost of going out to sea has become higher, putting pressure on profit margins, especially for small-scale fishermen.
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Construction and Industry
Heavy equipment and diesel-powered construction machines are facing higher project costs that must now be recalculated in budgets.
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Generators and Backup Power Sources
Businesses that depend on diesel generators as backup power, such as manufacturing industries, cold storage facilities, and MSMEs in remote areas, will feel the increase in backup electricity costs.
Subsidized vs Non-Subsidized Diesel: Which Is Suitable for Diesel Engines?
Amid the rise in non-subsidized diesel prices, subsidized Biosolar (B35) is still sold at Rp 6,800 per liter and is available at the same price throughout Indonesia. However, there are important points to consider:
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Biosolar B35 contains a 35% biodiesel blend. It is suitable for regular diesel engines, but for some high-precision diesel engines, long-term use should pay attention to the condition of the filters and injectors.
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Dexlite and Pertamina Dex have a higher cetane number, which produces cleaner combustion and is suitable for engines that require optimal performance.
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For industrial diesel engines, using fuel that matches the manufacturer’s specifications is strongly recommended to maintain performance and engine life.
Fuel-Saving Tips for Diesel Engine Users Amid Rising Prices
To keep operating costs efficient, here are some practical steps you can take:
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Service the engine regularly: A well-maintained engine uses diesel more efficiently. Make sure the air filter, fuel filter, and injectors are clean.
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Use fuel that matches the engine specification: Do not switch fuel types without checking the manufacturer’s recommendation.
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Avoid overloading: An engine working too hard will consume more fuel.
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Turn off the engine when not in use: An engine left idling for more than 10 minutes wastes fuel.
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Check for fuel leaks: Small leaks in hoses or pumps can become significant fuel waste over time.
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Schedule operating hours: Arrange engine work schedules efficiently so no time is wasted.
The increase in non-subsidized diesel prices in 2026 is an important reminder for diesel engine users to manage operating costs more carefully. While subsidized Biosolar is still available at Rp 6.800 per liter, non-subsidized diesel products such as Dexlite and Pertamina Dex are now at much higher levels.
The key to facing this situation is a well-maintained engine and the correct choice of fuel. Quality diesel engines such as the fuel-efficient Tianli series can be a long-term investment that helps reduce operating costs even as diesel prices continue to fluctuate.
Keep monitoring the latest diesel fuel prices and make sure your diesel engine is always in top condition.
