South Africa is bracing for a major fuel price shock in April, with petrol expected to rise by up to R4 per litre and diesel by more than R7. Picture Credit: nicsha.co.za
By Aisha Zardad
South Africa — South Africans could soon face another major fuel price shock, with early data pointing to petrol increases of nearly R4 per litre in April.
According to the latest figures from the Central Energy Fund (CEF), current market conditions are showing a significant under-recovery ahead of the next adjustment, scheduled for 1 April 2026.
Massive increases expected: Mid-March data indicates that motorists should brace for steep hikes across both petrol and diesel:
- Petrol 93 – +387 cents per litre
- Petrol 95 – +427 cents per litre
- Diesel 0.05% – +704 cents per litre
- Diesel 0.005% – +715 cents per litre
This translates to petrol increases of between R3.87 and R4.27 per litre, while diesel could surge by more than R7 per litre.
Global tensions driving prices higher
The sharp increases are largely being driven by escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, particularly the conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel.
The conflict has triggered a surge in global oil prices, which climbed from below $60 per barrel at the start of the year to over $110 in recent weeks. Although prices have eased slightly, they remain elevated at just above $100 per barrel.
Further pressure has come from disruptions to key global supply routes, including the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping lane for oil.
Rand weakness adds to the pain: In addition to rising oil prices, the weakening rand has made fuel imports more expensive. The local currency started the year strong, trading below R15 to the US dollar, but has since weakened to around R16.77/$.
A weaker rand increases the cost of importing fuel, compounding the impact of higher global oil prices.
Tax hikes coming in April: Adding to the pressure, the South African government is set to increase fuel-related taxes next month.
In his 2026 Budget Speech, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana confirmed that several levies will be adjusted in line with inflation.
These include:
- General Fuel Levy (GFL) – up 9c to R4.10/litre
- Carbon Fuel Levy – up 5c per litre
- Road Accident Fund (RAF) Levy – up 7c to R2.25/litre
Together, these increases will add 21 cents per litre to the price of both petrol and diesel.
A tough monthahead for motorists. With global oil prices elevated, the rand under pressure, and taxes increasing, South African motorists are facing a perfect storm of rising fuel costs.
If current trends hold, April could bring one of the steepest fuel price hikes in recent years, placing additional strain on households and businesses already dealing with rising living costs.
