We detail the confirmed price you will pay for fuel – petrol and diesel – in South Africa from Wednesday, 7 October 2026…
The Central Energy Fund (CEF), acting for the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR), announces official fuel price increases starting on 7 October. Petrol prices rise by R3.12 per litre for 93 ULP/LRP and R3.33 per litre for 95 ULP/LRP. Diesel increases by R2.84 per litre for 0.05% sulphur and R3.24 per litre for 0.005% sulphur. Wholesale illuminating paraffin rises by R3.58 per litre.
Crude oil sits at $89 per barrel, yet prices remain high due to ongoing conflict between Iran and the United States. Fluctuating oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz reduce international inventories and drive up shipping costs.
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Confirmed October 2026 fuel price
Inland price
- Petrol 93 ULP/LRP – R29.88 per litre
- Petrol 95 ULP/LRP – R30.25 per litre
- Diesel 0.05% Sulphur/500ppm (wholesale) – R31.95 per litre
- Diesel 0.005% Sulphur/50ppm (wholesale) – R33.29 per litre
Coastal price
- Petrol 95 ULP/LRP – R29.38 per litre
- Diesel 0.05% Sulphur/500ppm (wholesale) – R31.08 per litre
- Diesel 0.005% Sulphur/50ppm (wholesale) – R32.03 per litre
South African fuel prices have experienced significant volatility throughout this year. As mentioned, this is driven by geopolitical tensions, international crude oil price fluctuations, and adjustments to the domestic slate levy. The year opened with relatively subdued costs, reaching a low in February before surging through the autumn and winter months as inland 95 ULP climbed from R20.30 in March to a peak of R28.06 per litre in June.
A brief period of relief followed in July and August as prices moderated; however, escalating conflict in the Middle East and rising global shipping costs reversed this relief by September. By the end of September, petrol prices had bounced back to R26.92 per litre, while diesel (0.005% sulphur) rose sharply to R30.05 per litre, laying the groundwork for further steep increases moving into the final quarter.
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