South Africans will unfortunately start the new year with another fuel price increase, marking the third consecutive adjustment.

According to an article published by Benoni City Times, Henry van der Merwe, chairman of the South African Petroleum Retailers Association (SAPRA), a member of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), says the fuel price increases will place additional strain on motorists, but agreed with reports stating the reduction in illuminating paraffin prices will offer slight relief for households relying on it for heating and lighting.

He expressed concern over the cumulative impact of consecutive increases which are expected to drive up transport costs, which may in turn lead to higher prices for goods and services, placing further pressure on already stretched consumer budgets.

“This adjustment is particularly challenging for businesses and consumers alike as we start a new year when consumer budgets are traditionally stretched after the festive period.”

Effective from 00:01 on January 1, the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy has announced the following changes:

• Petrol 93 ULP & LRP: 19.00 cents per litre increase
• Petrol 95 ULP & LRP: 12.00 cents per litre increase
• Diesel (0.05% Sulphur): 7.50 cents per litre increase
• Diesel (0.005% Sulphur): 10.50 cents per litre increase

Illuminating paraffin:

• 50 cents per litre decrease (wholesale)
• 00 cents per litre decrease in Single Maximum National Retail Price

LPG:

• Maximum retail price increases by 13.00 cents per kilogram

“We urge all South Africans to adapt their fuel usage wherever possible and explore ways to mitigate the effects of rising costs,” van der Merwe says, adding holidaymakers travelling home will also need to factor in the increases.

He also stressed the importance of supporting small businesses in the petroleum retail sector during this challenging period.

“As SAPRA, we continue to advocate for measures that can alleviate pressure on both consumers and our members.”

For further details or confirmation of pump prices in your area, contact your local distributor or visit SAPRA’s website.