Petrol savings as fuel price drops from Wednesday

It’s a great start to 2026 for South African motorists, with petrol prices set to drop to lows not seen since 2022 this Wednesday, 7 January.

And the timing could not be better, as thousands of holidaymakers make their way home after the festive season break.

According to a media statement issued by the office of Gwede Mantashe, Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, fuel prices were revised based on prevailing local and international factors.

Petrol is expected to decrease by 62 cents per litre for 93 unleaded and 66 cents for 95 unleaded, while diesel users will see even bigger relief, with reductions of R1.50 per litre.

Why the drop?

The reason behind the fuel price drop, according to the department, is the crude oil prices, international petroleum product prices, and the rand/US dollar exchange rate.

While this is good news for consumers, analysts caution that global geopolitical tensions could still introduce volatility later in the year.

For now, however, motorists can enjoy a lighter fuel bill.

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