Cape Town – South African motorists could face record fuel price increases in October 2026, with petrol and diesel prices being pushed higher by global oil-market disruptions linked to conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine.
Current Central Energy Fund (CEF) data shows under-recoveries of R1.81 a litre for 93 petrol and R1.93 for 95 petrol, while diesel faces increases of up to R2.03 a litre.
If current trends persist, 95 petrol could rise to about R28.85 a litre, exceeding the previous record of R28.06 set in June. Diesel could reach around R32.08 a litre, also setting a new record.
The potential increases come as South Africa’s economy contracted by 0.2% in the second quarter of 2026, increasing pressure on households and businesses.
Geopolitical tensions and disruptions to global energy supplies, along with Brent crude approaching $100 a barrel, are key drivers of the expected increases.
Higher fuel prices could further increase transport and logistics costs, household expenses and inflation, adding to the financial pressure on South Africans.
Follow African Insider on Facebook, X and Instagram
Picture: Pixabay
For more African news, visit Africaninsider.com
Compiled by Betha Madhomu
