South African motorists may soon feel significant pressure at the pumps, with forecasts pointing to steep fuel price increases when the next adjustment takes effect on 1 April 2026.
According to projections from the Central Energy Fund, petrol prices could climb by between R2.28 and R2.41 per litre, while diesel may jump by as much as roughly R4.50 per litre.
The anticipated hike comes amid ongoing strain in global oil markets, with tensions in the Middle East contributing to rising costs. In addition, motorists are set to face further pressure following a fuel levy increase announced in the national budget, as reported by African Insider.
If current market trends continue without change, inland petrol prices could move beyond the R23-per-litre mark once the new pricing structure is implemented.
At present, motorists are paying the following prices during March:
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93-octane petrol – R20.19 per litre (inland)
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95-octane petrol – R20.30 per litre (inland) and R19.47 per litre (coastal)
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Diesel 500ppm – R18.53 per litre (inland) and R17.70 per litre (coastal)
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Diesel 50ppm – R18.60 per litre (inland) and R17.84 per litre (coastal)
Based on the latest projections for April, including the expected adjustment to the fuel levy, pump prices could shift to the following levels:
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93-octane petrol – R22.82 per litre (inland)
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95-octane petrol – R23.06 per litre (inland) and R22.23 per litre (coastal)
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Diesel 500ppm – R23.31 per litre (inland) and R22.48 per litre (coastal)
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Diesel 50ppm – R23.48 per litre (inland) and R22.72 per litre (coastal)
Should these forecasts hold steady until the end of the pricing cycle, drivers across the country could soon be paying considerably more to fill up their tanks.
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