Fuel relief incoming — diesel drops 52c, petrol nudges down in September

 Cape Town – South Africans are set to see slightly lower fuel prices in September, offering some relief amid rising inflation.

The Central Energy Fund (CEF) has projected small reductions in petrol and more significant drops in diesel. Petrol 93 is expected to decrease by 14 cents per litre, and Petrol 95 by 6 cents per litre.

Diesel prices could fall by about 51–52 cents per litre, depending on the grade. The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) will make the official fuel price determination at the end of the month.

Here’s a clear table showing the projected fuel price changes for September based on the CEF data:

These decreases are largely due to favourable exchange rates and global oil price movements. Early in August, oil prices had dropped to around $66 a barrel before climbing back to $68, still lower than the previous month.

This allowed for an “over-recovery” in fuel prices, meaning consumers benefit from a larger price adjustment despite the rand’s earlier weakness.

Global geopolitical factors, including the Russia-Ukraine war, have had minimal impact on Brent Crude prices so far.

The market is watching ceasefire talks closely, as a potential peace deal could ease restrictions on Russian crude exports. Much of Russia’s oil has continued flowing, particularly to India, which has drawn recent criticism from former US President Donald Trump.