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Here It Comes

South Africans are about to feel a sharp increase in fuel prices, with diesel set to rise the most.

The expected hikes are linked to rising global oil prices, driven by conflict in Iran and pressure on key shipping routes in the Middle East. Around the world, countries are becoming anxious as they compete for fuel from alternative sources and keep a close eye on their reserves.

When oil producing regions are unstable, supply concerns push prices higher worldwide. Countries begin competing for supply and even outbidding each other. In the end, everyone pays more for fuel. That means even local motorists, far from the conflict, end up paying more at the pump.

If current forecasts hold, then from 1 April 2026 (yes, unfortunately, April Fool’s Day), fuel price increases could be very steep. Petrol 93 is expected to rise by R3.87 per litre, while Petrol 95 could increase by R4.27 per litre. Diesel is facing even bigger hikes, with an increase of R7.04 per litre for 0.05% sulphur diesel and R7.15 per litre for 0.005% sulphur diesel. Some forecasts even suggest increases closer to R8 per litre. Illuminating paraffin is also set to rise sharply by R8.19 per litre.

All these increases will push up transport costs across the economy. The real concern is diesel. It powers trucks, buses, and much of the machinery that keeps goods moving across the country. When diesel prices rise this sharply, the impact spreads quickly to food prices, deliveries, and everyday services.

For consumers already working with limited funds, this adds even more pressure to monthly budgets. It could also affect interest rates, with fewer chances of repo rate cuts and even the risk of increases.

 Keeping a close eye on fuel use, planning trips carefully, and adjusting spending where possible will be important in the months ahead.