Here’s the confirmed fuel price hike for April 2026

South African motorists are set to face one of the largest fuel price increases in the country’s history when new prices take effect on Wednesday, 1 April.

The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy confirmed significant increases in both petrol and diesel prices following a volatile month in global oil markets and a weaker rand.

Steep rises

Petrol will increase by R3.06 per litre, while diesel will see an even steeper rise of between R7.37 and R7.51 per litre, depending on the grade.

The sharp adjustments come after a period of extreme pressure on the fuel price formula, driven by geopolitical tensions and currency fluctuations.

The surge in fuel costs follows escalating conflict in the Middle East after the United States launched military strikes against Iran on 28 February.

The conflict triggered retaliatory actions from Iran and heightened fears over the stability of oil supply routes, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz – one of the world’s most critical oil shipping lanes.

Temporary reduction

In an attempt to cushion motorists from the full impact of the increases, the National Treasury announced a temporary reduction of the general fuel levy by R3.00 per litre.

The intervention helped prevent even higher increases at the pumps, but prices will still rise sharply despite the relief measure.

Economists warn that the increase could have wide-ranging consequences for the South African economy.

Diesel, which powers much of the country’s freight, agricultural and industrial sectors, will see the most dramatic rise. This is expected to drive up transportation costs and place additional pressure on food prices and inflation in the coming months.

Remains uncertain

Industry analysts say the situation remains uncertain as tensions in the Middle East continue to affect global oil supply and investor sentiment.

Should geopolitical instability persist, further pressure on fuel prices cannot be ruled out in the months ahead.

For now, motorists across the country are preparing for higher costs at the pump as the new fuel prices come into effect at midnight on 1 April.

And that’s – sadly – no joke …

FUEL PRICE IN SOUTH AFRICA IMPACTED BY TWO MAIN FACTORS:

1. The international price of petroleum products, driven mainly by oil prices

2. The rand/dollar exchange rate used in the purchase of these products

Oil price

At the time of publishing the brent crude oil price is $116.03 a barrel.

Exchange rate

At the time of publishing the rand/dollar exchange rate is R17.08/$.

The April 2026 petrol and diesel prices (Inland and Coastal):