LIMPOPO –South African motorists could be in for another round of fuel price relief in August, with early projections showing petrol dropping by more than R2 per litre and diesel by as much as R3.50.

What the numbers show

According to daily data from the Central Energy Fund (CEF), over-recoveries remain strong across all fuel grades, pointing to lower prices at the pumps when adjustments take effect at midnight on Tuesday, August 4.

Expected decreases for August 2026:

• 93 Unleaded Petrol: Down by approximately R2.02 to R2.50 per litre
• 95 Unleaded Petrol: Down by approximately R2.04 to R2.50 per litre
• Diesel 0.05%: Down by approximately R2.22 to R3.07 per litre
• Diesel 0.005%: Down by approximately R2.60 to R3.51 per litre

While some projections show even steeper cuts – with the CEF suggesting potential decreases of up to R2.88 for petrol and R3.80 for diesel – these figures are subject to change as market conditions shift over the remainder of the month.

Why prices are dropping

Two key factors drive the sustained relief. A stronger rand and lower global oil prices.

Oil prices have remained below the $80 per barrel mark following the US-Iran truce signed in June, which eased concerns over supply disruptions in the Middle East.

However, much could still change between now and month-end. The rand/dollar exchange rate remains volatile, and oil prices could fluctuate depending on geopolitical developments.

Still paying more than March

Despite two consecutive months of relief, fuel remains significantly more expensive than it was before the sharp increases between April and June. According to the CEF, 95 Unleaded petrol still costs R5.76 more than it did in March, while diesel is R6.57 more expensive.

Official announcement due end of July

The official fuel prices for August will be confirmed by the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources at the end of July, based on the average performance of oil prices and the rand over the full month.