South Africans will face a massive fuel price hike from May 6, as global oil market pressure and a weaker rand drive costs to record highs.

Petrol (unleaded) 93 and 95 will increase by R3.27 per litre, while diesel is set to rise by R6.19 per litre at the wholesale level.

Illuminating paraffin will go up by R4.22 per litre, and LPGAS in Gauteng by R5.07 per kg.

The increases follow the removal of government relief measures.

Diesel is expected to breach R30 per litre, with some estimates suggesting it will exceed R31.

Inland 95 petrol will cost roughly R26.63, compared to R25.76 at the coast.

Analysts describe the adjustment as an “inflation event” rather than a minor cost shift, with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) likely to rise significantly.

The steep increase in diesel, which powers logistics, agriculture, and freight, is expected to push up the cost of goods and food.

The South African Reserve Bank may also face pressure to raise interest rates by 25 basis points later in May.

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