Here is how fuel price shock could push petrol above R23 per litre in SA

Cape Town – South African motorists could face sharp fuel price increases in April 2026 as global oil market pressures and Middle East tensions push costs higher.

Predictions from the Central Energy Fund suggest petrol prices may rise by about R2.28–R2.41 per litre and diesel by up to around R4.50 per litre.

The expected increase will also be compounded by a fuel levy hike announced in the national budget.

If market conditions remain unchanged, petrol prices could exceed R23 per litre inland when the new pricing takes effect on 1 April.

Current fuel prices and April projections

In March, motorists are paying the following prices at the pump:

• 93-octane petrol – R20.19 per litre (inland)

• 95-octane petrol – R20.30 per litre (inland) and R19.47 per litre (coastal)

• Diesel 500ppm – R18.53 per litre (inland) and R17.70 per litre (coastal)

• Diesel 50ppm – R18.60 per litre (inland) and R17.84 per litre (coastal)

Based on current forecasts for April, including the expected fuel levy adjustment, prices could rise to approximately:

• 93-octane petrol – R22.82 per litre (inland)

• 95-octane petrol – R23.06 per litre (inland) and R22.23 per litre (coastal)

• Diesel 500ppm – R23.31 per litre (inland) and R22.48 per litre (coastal)

• Diesel 50ppm – R23.48 per litre (inland) and R22.72 per litre (coastal)