As South Africa approaches April 1, 2026, motorists are bracing for a significant fuel price increase. The Central Energy Fund (CEF) has indicated that under-recoveries for petrol and diesel are leading to this anticipated rise.
On the day of the increase, 95-octane petrol is projected to rise by R6.03 per litre, while 93-octane petrol will see an increase of R5.53 per litre. Diesel prices are also set to surge, with diesel containing 0.05% sulphur expected to increase by R10.34 per litre, and diesel with 0.005% sulphur projected to rise by R10.48 per litre.
Furthermore, the price of paraffin is expected to nearly double, with a projected increase of R11.63. A collective increase of 21 cents per litre for fuel levies will also take effect, compounding the financial burden on consumers.
The Competition Commission has issued warnings against potential fuel price gouging as global oil prices continue to rise, currently exceeding $100 a barrel due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.
Motorists are advised to budget significantly more for fuel in April, with estimates suggesting an additional cost of R1,206 for those using 200 litres of petrol per month and R2,068 for diesel vehicle owners.
In response to the looming price hike, some fuel retailers have begun limiting the amount of fuel sold to customers, raising concerns about panic buying. Government officials have urged the public to remain calm, with a spokesperson stating, “There is no basis for panic buying,” and Minister Gwede Mantashe emphasizing, “Panic kills.”
Experts warn that the risk of exploitation extends beyond the pump, affecting various industries reliant on oil-based inputs. As the situation develops, the government faces pressure to mitigate the impact of these rising fuel prices on consumers and the economy.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any potential interventions that may be implemented to alleviate the financial strain on South Africans as the fuel price increase approaches.
