South Africa September Fuel Prices: Diesel Drops Sharply, Petrol Sees Minor Changes
South Africans can expect relief at the pumps in September, with diesel costs set to fall significantly and petrol prices showing only...
Quick overview
- South Africans will see significant relief at the pumps in September, with diesel prices dropping by around 55 cents per litre.
- Petrol prices will experience only minor changes, with a decrease of about 4 cents for 95 ULP and 12 cents for 93 ULP.
- The diesel price cut is expected to benefit the transport and agriculture sectors, helping to alleviate inflationary pressures.
- Overall, the adjustments reflect international fuel price movements and a stronger rand, providing welcome relief for consumers.
South Africans can expect relief at the pumps in September, with diesel costs set to fall significantly and petrol prices showing only minor changes.
Fuel Price Outlook
Month-end data from the Central Energy Fund (CEF) indicates that motorists will see fuel price adjustments next week, with diesel users benefiting more than petrol users.
- Diesel: ↓ around 55c per litre
- Petrol 95 ULP: ↓ about 4c per litre
- Petrol 93 ULP: ↓ about 12c per litre
- Illuminating paraffin: ↓ 37 cents per litre
However, a late under-recovery on 95 ULP could mean this grade experiences a small hike instead of a cut. The official fuel price changes will be confirmed by the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources early next week.
Economic and Inflationary Context
The diesel reduction will be particularly welcomed by the transport and agriculture sectors, both highly dependent on fuel, and should help keep broader inflation pressures in check.
In July, Consumer Price Inflation (CPI) rose to 3.5% from 3.0% in June, the highest level since September 2024. Rising food prices, especially for beef and vegetables, were the main driver, but diesel increases of 63–65c in July and 84c in June also added pressure. The anticipated September cut is expected to ease cost burdens for businesses and households alike.
Current Fuel Levels
At the coast, 50ppm diesel is currently priced at R19.28 per litre, still around 60c higher than in January, but the upcoming reduction should bring it back into line. Petrol prices, by contrast, have been more stable this year. 95 ULP costs R20.76 per litre at the coast, close to January’s R20.80, reflecting relative steadiness compared to diesel.
Global and Currency Factors
September’s adjustments largely reflect international fuel price movements. While petrol prices abroad have been muted, diesel prices have fallen on the back of rising inventories.
Additionally, a slightly stronger rand contributed modest relief of about 1.5c per litre, cushioning South African consumers against global price swings.
Conclusion: Overall, South Africans—especially those in logistics, freight, and farming—will benefit most from the sharp diesel price cut in September. With petrol staying largely stable and diesel set to drop, the adjustment provides some welcome relief for households and businesses under ongoing inflationary pressure.
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