South Africa faces significant fuel price increases in May 2026, with petrol projected to rise by R1.77 to R2.09 per litre and diesel by R5.42 per litre, despite government relief measures.
The Central Energy Fund estimates that the petrol price for May 2026 will reach R25.45 per litre. Diesel prices are expected to exceed R30 per litre, reaching around R30.61 for the wholesale grade. The government has extended a relief measure of R3.00 per litre for petrol and increased diesel relief to R3.93 per litre for the same month.
In July 2022, South Africa recorded its highest Petrol 95 price at R26.74 per litre. The general fuel levy for petrol will remain at R1.10 per litre in May 2026, while the diesel tax relief will drop to R1.96 per litre starting June 2026.
Key statistics:
- Petrol prices are projected to rise by:
- Diesel prices are projected to increase by:
- The estimated cost of the temporary fuel levy relief from April to June 2026 is R17.2 billion.
R1.77 for 93 Unleaded and R2.09 for 95 Unleaded.
R5.42 for 0.05% wholesale and R5.43 for 0.005% wholesale.
The diesel situation is described as far more dire, with officials warning of escalating costs impacting consumers significantly.
Officials have not confirmed how the slate levy will affect future prices after adjustments on May 6, 2026.
