Unpredictable petrol prices await motorists

Motorists and businesses will see a combination of increases and decreases in fuel prices this month, reflecting the latest adjustment announced by the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources.

The new prices take effect from October 1.

The national vice chairperson of the South African Petroleum Retailers Association, Lebo Ramolahloane, who is also an associate of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation, notes that while some increases are expected, the overall adjustment offers relief in key areas.

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“Petrol prices are seeing modest increases, largely to accommodate wage adjustments for service station staff, but decreases in diesel, paraffin and LPG provide much-needed relief for transport, agriculture and logistics, sectors that play a critical role in the economy and directly affect consumer costs,” says Ramolahloane.

Fuel price adjustments from October 1:
Petrol – retail price:
• 93 ULP and LRP: one cent per litre increase;
• 95 ULP and LRP: 8 cents per litre increase.
Diesel – Wholesale price

• 0.05% Sulphur: 10.00 cents/litre decrease

• 0.005% Sulphur: 8.00 cents/litre decrease

Illuminating Paraffin

• Wholesale: 11.00 cents/litre decrease

• SMNRP: 15.00 cents/litre decrease

LPG

• Maximum Retail Price: 17.00 cents/kg decrease

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Ramolahloane notes the Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources has approved a retail margin increase of 6.1 c/litre, to be reflected in the retail price of all petrol grades from 1 October 2025.

“This increase accommodates wage adjustments for pump attendants, cashiers, and administrative staff at service stations,” he explains.

While petrol costs have edged higher, the decreases in diesel, paraffin, and LPG will provide relief for households and businesses relying on these fuels.

SAPRA will continue monitoring market movements closely to keep motorists and industry stakeholders informed.