South African motorists are warned of a massive fuel price hike in April 2026, driven by ongoing global conflicts and local tax adjustments. The anticipated changes are expected to significantly affect diesel fuel prices, among others.
According to reports, 93-octane petrol is facing an under-recovery of 387 cents per litre, while 95-octane petrol is seeing an under-recovery of 427 cents per litre. Diesel prices are particularly impacted, with diesel (0.05% sulphur) showing an under-recovery of 715 cents per litre and diesel (0.005% sulphur) at 704 cents per litre.
In terms of expected increases, petrol 93 is projected to rise by R3.87 cents per litre, while petrol 95 is expected to increase by R4.27 cents per litre. Diesel prices are set to rise even more sharply, with diesel 0.05% expected to increase by R7.04 cents per litre and diesel 0.005% by R7.15 cents per litre. Additionally, illuminating paraffin is expected to rise by R8.19 cents per litre.
After the adjustments, a litre of 93 unleaded petrol will cost R24.06, while a litre of 0.05% diesel will reach R25.57. These increases are part of a broader trend influenced by international market dynamics.
Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources Gwede Mantashe stated, “Substantial fuel price increases are increasingly unavoidable.” He emphasized that countries reliant on imports of refined petroleum products are particularly vulnerable to global market shocks.
The disruption of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical trade route for oil, is playing a significant role in the ongoing price increases. As the conflict in the Middle East continues, the global rise in oil prices is expected to exacerbate inflation, particularly impacting diesel prices.
Edmund King, president of the AA, noted that the situation is dire, stating, “As the conflict in the Middle East continues, the global increase in oil prices will hurt inflation, particularly with the diesel price hikes.”
As South Africa navigates these challenges, motorists and businesses alike are preparing for the financial implications of these fuel price adjustments.
