Cape Town – South African motorists are expected to see further relief at the fuel pumps in early February, following price decreases at the start of the year.
According to the Central Energy Fund (CEF), petrol, diesel, and illuminating paraffin remain under downward pressure, largely supported by a stronger rand, which is trading at its highest level against the US dollar since June 2022.
If market conditions remain stable, the CEF projects petrol 93 to drop by 65 cents per litre and petrol 95 by 67 cents. Diesel motorists could see reductions of between 57 and 65 cents per litre, while illuminating paraffin is expected to fall by 57 cents.
However, the outlook has become more uncertain due to a modest rise in Brent crude oil prices, currently at $65.24 a barrel. Analysts note that any sustained increase in global oil prices could limit further reductions, while continued rand strength may cushion against sharper hikes.
Current inland January 2026 prices are R20.64 for petrol 93, R20.75 for petrol 95, R18.41–R18.52 for diesel, and R12.63 for illuminating paraffin.
Coastal prices are slightly lower. Final fuel price adjustments will be confirmed later this month and are set to take effect at midnight on Tuesday, 3 February.
Fuel prices in South Africa are primarily influenced by international oil prices and the rand/dollar exchange rate.
Follow African Insider on Facebook, X and Instagram
Picture: Pixabay
For more African news, visit Africaninsider.com
Compiled by Betha Madhomu
