South African motorists can expect some relief at the pumps in September 2025 as both petrol and diesel prices are forecast to decrease. The expected reduction follows a stronger rand and lower international oil prices, creating significant over-recoveries across all fuel types.
Latest projections show that petrol 93 octane may decrease by 12 cents per litre, while petrol 95 octane could drop by 4 cents. Diesel users are set to benefit the most, with both 0.05% and 0.005% diesel expected to fall by 55 cents per litre. Illuminating paraffin is also forecast to drop by 37 cents.
These cuts come as welcome news for motorists, freight operators, and small businesses, who have faced months of fluctuating energy costs. The official adjustment will be confirmed by the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy at month-end, with new tariffs taking effect at midnight on Tuesday, 2 September 2025.
Fuel prices in South Africa are primarily influenced by two factors: global oil prices and the rand/dollar exchange rate. At the time of projection, Brent crude oil stood at $67.85 per barrel, while the rand traded at R17.69 against the US dollar. If current conditions hold, the decreases will provide broad relief heading into the final quarter of the year.
