A significant calculation error by the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR) has led to a lower-than-expected diesel price increase in South Africa. The adjustment affects consumers and inflation forecasts as the corrected increase is now R5.27 per litre instead of the previously announced R6.19.
The error stemmed from a decimal miscalculation regarding a temporary tax reprieve for diesel. The additional fuel levy reduction for diesel was incorrectly recorded as 0.93 cents instead of the intended 93 cents.
Key facts:
- The diesel price increase was adjusted downwards by 92 cents.
- The petrol price increase remains unchanged at R3.27 per litre.
- The wholesale price of diesel will rise to about R30.62 at the coast and R31.38 in Gauteng.
- The cumulative slate reflected a negative balance of R14.17 billion at the end of March 2026.
Officials from the DMPR stated, “During the calculation of fuel prices for May 2026, the additional 93.00 cents per litre reduction in the fuel levy on diesel was erroneously captured as 0.93 cents per litre.” This suggests that the additional diesel relief measure was not initially factored into the fuel price adjustment.
While this correction eases some pressure, analysts warn that the increase still remains substantial. One observer noted, “The increase remains massive and will add fuel to the flames of domestic inflation, but at least it is not as steep as it was.”
The government plans to re-add the full fuel tax in parts over the next two months, which could further impact consumers.
