A global map of gasoline price changes between February 23 and April 13, 2026, shows that the energy market has been heavily affected by geopolitical tensions in West Asia. During this period, growing concerns over the security of energy transit through the Strait of Hormuz have triggered a wave of price increases worldwide.
In this context, Myanmar recorded the highest increase, with prices rising by 101.1 percent to about $1.58 per liter. It was followed by the Philippines with a 72.6 percent increase (around $1.43) and Malaysia with 68.1 percent (about $0.87), ranking second and third respectively. These figures indicate that Southeast Asia, due to its high dependence on fuel imports, has been the most affected by supply shocks.
Further along, Laos with 45.6 percent ($1.77), Zimbabwe with 42.9 percent ($1.54), Pakistan with 42 percent ($1.18), and the United Arab Emirates with 40.8 percent ($0.98) are among the countries that have experienced sharp price increases. Guatemala with 37.7 percent, Panama with 38.5 percent, and Peru with 35.6 percent also recorded notable growth.
In the Americas, the United States saw a 35.1 percent increase, with gasoline prices reaching about $1.27 per liter. Canada also faced a 28.9 percent rise, with prices around $1.26. These increases reflect the direct impact of global oil market volatility on these economies.
In Europe, the increases were more moderate but still significant. The United Kingdom rose by 20 percent to about $1.93, Germany by 18.8 percent to $1.83, and France by 10.8 percent to around $1.90. These figures suggest that energy infrastructure and storage policies have helped partially absorb the shock.
In Africa, Malawi, with a high price of $3.84 and a 34.4 percent increase, remains one of the most expensive markets. Tanzania, with a 37 percent rise ($1.49), and Lesotho, with 31.6 percent ($1.34), are also among the countries experiencing significant increases. In contrast, some countries such as Algeria showed no noticeable change.
In Asia, China recorded a 29 percent increase to about $1.29, South Korea rose by 16.5 percent to $1.65, and Japan increased by 8.2 percent to $1.24. Meanwhile, India posted a slight decrease of -0.1 percent, with prices remaining around $1.22.
These figures indicate that the main driver of rising prices is the increase in geopolitical risk and concerns over disruption in one of the world’s most critical energy transit routes. The Strait of Hormuz passes a substantial share of global oil daily, and any restriction or threat in this corridor is immediately reflected in prices.
Rising gasoline prices have wide-ranging consequences, from higher transportation costs and increased goods prices to intensified global inflation. These pressures are more severe in developing countries, which are more dependent on energy imports.
Outlook:
If tensions in West Asia persist and the risk of disruption in the Strait of Hormuz remains, the likelihood of continued price increases is very high. The energy market may face stronger volatility, supply shortages, and heightened competition for access to resources.
Under such conditions, countries are likely to move toward increasing strategic reserves, diversifying supply sources, and investing in alternative energy. The continuation of this situation could even reshape global energy trade routes and transform geopolitical equations worldwide.
NOURNEWS