Fuel prices to go up again on Wednesday

Motorists should buckle up for more fuel price increases as of Wednesday

May 4, 2026

Gugu Myeni 1 minute read

Fuel prices to go up Photo: Pexels | Engin Akyurt

There is no reprieve in sight for South African motorists who will have to pay more at the fuel pumps from Wednesday.

The government announced on Monday that petrol will increase by R3.27 per litre, while diesel will go up by R6.19 per litre.

ALSO READ: Government extends fuel levy relief amid May price hikes

An increase of R4.22 per litre is expected for illuminating paraffin.

This is amid ongoing geopolitical tensions which have impacted global oil prices.

“The average international product prices followed the increasing trend of crude oil prices.

“The prices of middle distillates [diesel and paraffin] increased more than petrol prices because of higher demand and reduced supply from the Persian Gulf.

“These factors led to higher contributions to the basic fuel prices of petrol, diesel and illuminating paraffin by R2.04 per litre, R4.96 per litre and R4.21 per litre respectively,” said the Department of Mineral Resources and Petroleum Products.

“The prices of propane and butane increased during the period under review due to limited global supply since the closure of the Strait of Hormuz,” added the department.

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