Official Fuel Price Change Confirmed for April 2026 in SA

South African motorists will face another fuel price increase from Wednesday, 1 April 2026, despite a temporary R3 per litre relief introduced by government.

The latest official adjustment confirms sharp increases in both petrol and diesel, with diesel seeing one of the biggest jumps.

Confirmed Fuel Price Increases

The official increases for April are:

• Petrol (ULP 95): +R3.02 per litre
• Diesel (50ppm): +R7.37 per litre
• Diesel (0.005% sulphur): +R7.51 per litre
• Illuminating paraffin: +R11.67 per litre

These changes take effect nationwide, with small variations depending on location.

R3 Relief Still Not Enough

Government has implemented a temporary R3.00 per litre fuel levy reduction from 1 April to 5 May 2026.

While this provides some relief, it has not been enough to offset the underlying increase in global fuel costs.

What’s Driving the Increase

According to the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, the increase is mainly due to:

• Rising international fuel prices
• A weaker South African rand
• Higher transport and distribution costs

The rand weakened from R15.99 to R16.64 against the US dollar, increasing the cost of fuel imports.

Global factors are also playing a role. Ongoing geopolitical tensions in key oil-producing regions — including parts of the Middle East — have contributed to uncertainty in global oil markets, which can push prices higher.

However, no single event has been officially identified as the sole cause of the increase.

Impact on Komani Residents

The increase is expected to place additional pressure on households and businesses in Komani and surrounding areas.

Higher diesel costs in particular are likely to affect:

• Transport and taxi fares
• Delivery and logistics costs
• Prices of food and basic goods

These knock-on effects are usually felt within days or weeks of fuel increases.

When It Takes Effect

The new fuel prices come into effect on:

Wednesday, 1 April 2026