Relief for motorists as fuel prices drop at midnight

Labour federation, COSATU, says the looming fuel price cuts will provide much-needed relief for millions of struggling South Africans, while also helping to support an economy still grappling with sluggish growth.

Motorists are set to pay less at the pumps from tomorrow.

The price of 93-octane petrol will decrease by R2.01 per litre, while 95-octane petrol will drop by R1.96 per litre.

Diesel prices will fall by between R3.13 and R3.58 per litre, depending on the grade.

The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources says the reductions are mainly driven by lower international oil prices, a stronger rand against the US dollar and a lower slate levy.

COSATU parliamentary coordinator, Matthew Parks, says the decrease will help ease inflationary pressures and the rising cost-of-living pressures, which continue to place significant strain on working-class households.

“We urge government to continue fuel levy relief to help cushion commuters and the economy during this volatile period.  The government needs to return to the network to engage labour and business in a comprehensive review of fuel prices, including the fuel taxes and the levy that constitutes a third of the prices.”

“Investments in public transport need to be ramped up,  including metro rail and transit,  as must efforts to transition towards electric vehicles,  as these will help shield commuters and the economy  from the inevitable international oil price volatile fluctuations.”

Parks added that, while welcoming the relief, oil prices have still not returned to pre-Middle East war levels.

“Fuel prices remain suffocatingly high and may continue for some time given the ongoing tensions in the Middle East.  The on-off ceasefire and the time it will take for oil and gas supplies to return to full capacity.”

Meanwhile, the South African Petroleum Retailers Association (SAPRA) says although lower prices are welcome, the broader economic outlook remains fragile.

The organisation says South Africa’s fuel price remains highly sensitive to movements in the rand, international oil prices and global geopolitical developments.

“For consumers, lower fuel prices may ease transport and food-cost pressures, but the benefit could be limited if other costs continue to rise.

“SAPRA believes the sector needs a more stable medium- to long-term outlook, supported by continued engagement between government and industry on pricing stability, margin sustainability and practical support for retailers adapting to changing consumer needs”

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— Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources ‏ (@DMPR_ZA) June 30, 2026