South Africa’s fuel prices are surging again, with petrol set to jump by R3.27 per litre and diesel skyrocketing by R6.19 per litre from 6 May 2026, following an official announcement by the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources.
The increases were confirmed on Monday, 4 May 2026, as motorists brace for another sharp adjustment at the pumps.
Fuel Price Hikes Confirmed
The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR) confirmed the increases in a media statement released on 4 May 2026.
A departmental statement read:
“The Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources announces the adjustment of fuel prices based on current local and international factors with effect from the 6th of May 2026.”
Spokesperson Robert Maake also detailed the increases, stating:
“Both grades of petrol will increase by R3,27c a litre. Diesel will increase by R6,19c a litre. Illuminating paraffin will increase by R4,22c per litre.”
The department further confirmed increases across other fuel categories, including LPGas, which will rise by R5.07 per kilogram in Gauteng and R5.78 per kilogram in the Western Cape.
The new prices take effect on Wednesday, 6 May 2026.
Global Pressures Behind The Increase
Officials pointed to international developments as the key drivers behind the sharp increases.
In its statement, the department explained:
“The average Brent Crude oil price increased from 93.67 US Dollars (US$93.67) to 101 US Dollars (US$101) during the period under review.”
The department added that geopolitical tensions have disrupted supply:
“This is due to the continued tension between the US and Iran, the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and damage to other crucial infrastructure which have affected crude oil supply.”
Rising global demand and reduced supply of refined fuel products also pushed prices higher, particularly for diesel and paraffin.
Levy Changes And Relief Measures
Despite the steep increases, government has implemented temporary relief measures.
The department confirmed a reduction in the fuel levy:
“A further temporary reduction in the general fuel levy of 300.0 c/l will be implemented… from the 6th of May 2026 to the 2nd June 2026.”
For diesel, the relief is slightly higher at 393.0 c/l.
However, another adjustment has added pressure to prices.
The department stated:
“The cumulative slate amounted to a negative balance of R14.173 billion at the end of March 2026.”
To address this, a slate levy of 122.70 c/l will be introduced from 6 May 2026.
Motorists are expected to feel the impact immediately, with fuel forming a key part of transport and living costs.
The Department confirmed that the full fuel price schedule for different regions will be released on 5 May 2026.