Lebanon’s cabinet approved a one‑percentage‑point increase in VAT from 11% to 12% and raised the price of a 20‑litre petrol canister by 300,000 Lebanese pounds. The government also announced a pay rise for public sector workers and retirees, while abolishing a diesel levy and increasing customs fees on shipping containers.
The cabinet approved raising VAT from 11% to 12%, pending formal enactment of the legislation.
On 17 February 2026, the price was raised by 300,000 Lebanese pounds, about $3.50.
Approximately 251,000 public employees and retirees will receive the increase.
The government abolished the levy on diesel fuel.
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