Fuel Pain Incoming: South Africans Brace For Massive Petrol and Diesel Hikes

South Africa is on the verge of a significant fuel price surge, with petrol and diesel costs set to climb sharply — a development that could place serious strain on the economy.

Calls for government intervention have intensified, with many urging temporary relief measures such as fuel tax cuts. Although a Cabinet committee has been established to assess the situation, no official support measures had been confirmed at the time of publication.

Projected Fuel Price Increases Could Hit Record Highs

Latest figures from the Central Energy Fund suggest that, without intervention, petrol prices could jump by as much as R5.31 per litre for 93 Unleaded and R5.82 for 95 Unleaded.

Diesel users are facing an even steeper climb. Prices are expected to increase by around R10.13 for 500ppm diesel and R10.27 for 50ppm.

In addition, tax adjustments announced in the 2026 Budget Speech will add a further 21 cents per litre. This includes increases to the General Fuel Levy (9 cents), Carbon Levy (5 cents), and Road Accident Fund Levy (7 cents).

If these projections materialise, motorists could soon be paying approximately R25.50 per litre for 95 Unleaded at the coast, and around R26.33 inland. Meanwhile, 93 Unleaded inland may reach roughly R25.71 per litre.

The official fuel price update for April is expected to be confirmed by government early this week.

Middle East Conflict Drives Global Oil Prices Higher

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has played a major role in pushing global oil prices upwards. Brent crude oil surged by about 38% compared to the previous review period.

In March, prices averaged around $95 per barrel — a sharp increase from $69 the month before.

At the same time, the rand weakened due to heightened global uncertainty, further adding pressure. However, the spike in oil prices remains the primary driver behind the expected fuel price increases.

The anticipated fuel hikes are likely to ripple across the economy, particularly affecting transport and logistics.

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Diesel costs, in particular, are expected to push up operating expenses throughout supply chains, placing additional pressure on businesses already facing weak consumer demand.

For consumers, this often translates into higher prices on everyday essentials, including food and household items, as transport costs rise.

These developments could also complicate South Africa’s inflation outlook, potentially reducing the central bank’s flexibility when it comes to cutting interest rates.