South African motorists are preparing for substantial increases in fuel prices starting April 1, 2026. A combination of rising international crude oil prices, a weakening Rand, and adjustments to fuel levies is expected to drive up the cost of petrol, diesel, and illuminating paraffin significantly.

Projected Fuel Price Increases for April 2026

Mid-March data from the Central Energy Fund (CEF) indicates considerable hikes across the board:

• Petrol 93: Expected increase of 387 cents per litre.
• Petrol 95: Anticipated rise of 427 cents per litre.
• Diesel 0.05% (wholesale): Forecasted to increase by 704 cents per litre.
• Diesel 0.005% (wholesale): Expected to climb by 715 cents per litre.
• Illuminating Paraffin: Predicted to increase by 899 cents per litre (wholesale) and 58 cents per litre (retail).

These increases could see petrol 95 reaching approximately R24.27 per litre inland and R23.48 at the coast. Diesel prices are also set to rise substantially.

Factors Driving the Price Increases

Several global and local factors are contributing to these anticipated hikes:

• Global Oil Prices: Brent crude oil prices have surged past $100 per barrel, influenced by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East that are impacting supply.
• Rand Depreciation: The South African Rand has weakened against the US dollar, making imported petroleum products more expensive in local currency.
• Fuel Levy Adjustments: Effective April 1, 2026, fuel taxes will increase by a total of 21 cents per litre, comprising the General Fuel Levy (9 cents) and the Road Accident Fund (RAF) levy (7 cents), along with other adjustments.

Impact on Consumers and the Economy

The ripple effect of higher fuel prices is expected to be significant. Increased transport costs for goods and services will likely lead to higher prices for food and other essential items, contributing further to inflation. This renewed inflationary pressure could influence the South African Reserve Bank’s (SARB) monetary policy. Morgan Stanley has already revised South Africa’s 2026 GDP growth forecast downwards due to these factors.

Motorists and households are advised to plan their budgets accordingly and explore ways to mitigate the impact of these price increases.

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