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South African motorists are warned of a massive fuel price hike in April 2026, with significant increases expected across various fuel types. This development is attributed to a combination of global conflict and local tax adjustments, which have created upward pressure on fuel prices.
As of now, the under-recovery for 93-octane petrol stands at 387 cents per litre, while 95-octane petrol faces an under-recovery of 427 cents per litre. Diesel prices are also set to rise sharply, with under-recoveries of 715 cents per litre for diesel with 0.05% sulphur and 704 cents for diesel with 0.005% sulphur. The anticipated increases are substantial, with petrol 93 expected to rise by R3.87 per litre and petrol 95 by R4.27 per litre. Diesel prices are projected to increase by R7.04 and R7.15 per litre for the respective sulphur content.
This price surge is not occurring in isolation. The average price of jet fuel in Africa reached $4.43 per gallon as of March 13, 2026, reflecting broader trends in fuel pricing across the continent. Additionally, South Africa imports roughly 80% of the fertiliser it uses, which is also affected by rising fuel costs, further complicating the economic landscape for consumers and businesses alike.
Rising geopolitical tensions, particularly the hostilities involving Iran, the United States, and Israel, have been cited as a significant factor contributing to the increase in fuel prices. Gavin Kelly, a spokesperson for the transport sector, noted that the increase in fuel prices in March 2026 is a direct result of upward pressure on the international oil price due to supply and logistics risks stemming from these conflicts.
Officials are expressing concern over the broader implications of rising fuel prices. Gwede Mantashe remarked that rising oil and gas prices affect the cost of living and create energy inequality, emphasizing that fuel remains one of the most significant input costs in the transport sector. Kelly also highlighted that these increases have a direct influence on prices across the broader economy, indicating that consumers may soon feel the pinch in various aspects of their daily lives.
As the situation develops, airlines in South Africa are already adjusting fares and surcharges in response to rising fuel prices, indicating a ripple effect throughout the transportation industry. The exact impact of the fuel price increases on food prices is not confirmed, leaving consumers and businesses uncertain about future costs.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the future stability of fuel supply chains, which remain uncertain due to ongoing geopolitical conflicts. As South Africans brace for these changes, the economic landscape appears increasingly challenging, with many looking for clarity on how these fuel price hikes will affect their daily lives and the overall economy.
