South Africa Faces Sharp Fuel Price Increases in September 2026

South African motorists face steep fuel price increases in September, with diesel expected to rise by almost R3 per litre.

Mid-month data from the Central Energy Fund points to increases of between 66c and 85c per litre for petrol.

Diesel under-recoveries are significantly higher, with projected increases ranging from R2.73 to R2.99 per litre.

The figures remain estimates. The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources will confirm the official adjustments before the first Wednesday of September.

Expected September Petrol Price Increases

Petrol users face the following projected increases:

• Petrol 93 Unleaded: Increase of 66c to 74c per litre
• Petrol 95 Unleaded: Increase of 77c to 85c per litre

The final adjustment will depend on fuel market movements during the rest of August.

Diesel Prices Face the Biggest Increase

Diesel prices are expected to record the largest increases:

• Diesel 0.05% wholesale: Increase of R2.73 to R2.80 per litre
• Diesel 0.005% wholesale: Increase of R2.90 to R2.99 per litre

Illuminating paraffin is forecast to increase by about R2.14 per litre.

What Is Driving the Expected Increases?

Geopolitical conflict and instability in the Middle East have pushed global oil market prices higher.

Central Energy Fund data also shows heavy daily under-recoveries heading into the final week of August.

These pressures have contributed to the projected increases across petrol, diesel and illuminating paraffin.

Final Fuel Prices Are Yet to Be Confirmed

The mid-month figures provide an indication of the likely September adjustments, but they are not the final prices.

The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources will confirm and adjust the official fuel prices before the first Wednesday of the month.

Expected Fuel Price Changes at a Glance

• Petrol 93: Up 66c to 74c per litre
• Petrol 95: Up 77c to 85c per litre
• Diesel 0.05%: Up R2.73 to R2.80 per litre
• Diesel 0.005%: Up R2.90 to R2.99 per litre
• Illuminating paraffin: Up about R2.14 per litre

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