SA Highest Petrol Prices – South Africans are set to feel the burn at the pump as June 2025 brings what experts are calling the most severe fuel price hike in recent memory. Petrol and diesel prices are projected to hit record levels, driven by a volatile blend of global oil market disruptions, local economic pressures, and an underperforming rand. With fuel forming the backbone of nearly every economic sector, from food distribution to transport, this spike is expected to have a broad and deep impact across the country. This development comes at a time when household budgets are already under strain due to rising electricity tariffs, food inflation, and stagnating wages. Consumers, businesses, and transport operators alike are now scrambling to adapt to the looming surge in operational costs.
What’s Behind the June 2025 Fuel Hike?
Ongoing geopolitical tensions and reduced oil production have pushed international prices upward, while the depreciating rand makes imports more expensive. Additionally, government-imposed taxes like the Road Accident Fund levy are adding to the retail cost, making this one of the most expensive fuel months in recent history.
Several interlinked global and local factors are contributing to this unprecedented price escalation:
- Surging Global Oil Prices: Oil-producing nations have recently reduced output as part of strategic supply management. Tensions in the Middle East and restricted supply from Russia have pushed Brent Crude above $95 per barrel.
- Rand Depreciation: With the local currency hovering near R20 to the US dollar, imported oil is becoming significantly more expensive.
- Higher Local Levies and Fuel Taxes: Government-mandated levies, including the General Fuel Levy and the Road Accident Fund Levy, make up over 35% of the total pump price.
- Increased Demand Globally: The arrival of summer in the Northern Hemisphere has pushed up international consumption, adding pressure on already strained supplies.
- Logistical Disruptions: Port delays and infrastructure maintenance issues have further compounded the situation, increasing the cost of importing and distributing fuel within South Africa.
Combined, these factors are driving prices beyond levels seen during past crises, such as the COVID-19 recovery period or the Ukraine war disruptions.
Province-Wise Expected Fuel Prices in June 2025
The June 2025 fuel price hike will impact all provinces, with petrol and diesel rates expected to rise sharply across the board. Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and Western Cape are projected to see 95 petrol prices exceed R25 per litre, while diesel could climb above R24. Variations in pricing are due to factors like transport costs and regional levies, but the increase is widespread, affecting both urban and rural drivers alike.
The following table outlines the projected average fuel prices across key South African provinces for June 2025. These figures are based on estimated hikes announced by fuel industry analysts and early indicators from the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy:
| Province | 93 Petrol (R/litre) | 95 Petrol (R/litre) | Diesel 0.05% (R/litre) | Diesel 0.005% (R/litre) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gauteng | R24.55 | R25.10 | R23.80 | R24.00 |
| Western Cape | R24.85 | R25.35 | R24.05 | R24.25 |
| KwaZulu-Natal | R24.70 | R25.20 | R23.90 | R24.10 |
| Eastern Cape | R24.95 | R25.50 | R24.10 | R24.30 |
| Northern Cape | R25.10 | R25.65 | R24.25 | R24.45 |
| Limpopo | R24.90 | R25.45 | R24.00 | R24.20 |
| Mpumalanga | R24.80 | R25.30 | R23.95 | R24.15 |
| Free State | R24.85 | R25.40 | R24.05 | R24.25 |
| North West | R24.75 | R25.25 | R23.90 | R24.10 |
Historical Fuel Price Comparison (2021–2025)
Looking at the last five years, June 2025’s anticipated prices stand out as the highest yet. Here’s how prices have evolved:
| Month/Year | 95 Petrol (R/litre) | Diesel (R/litre) | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| June 2021 | R17.13 | R15.50 | Recovery post COVID-19 |
| June 2022 | R21.60 | R20.05 | Russia-Ukraine war inflated oil prices |
| June 2023 | R22.35 | R21.50 | Stabilizing but still elevated |
| June 2024 | R23.10 | R22.00 | Moderate increase due to weak rand |
| June 2025 | R25.10 | R24.00 | Projected record high |
Impact on Daily Life and the Economy
The ripple effects of this fuel shock will be felt in every corner of South African society:
- Public Transport : Minibus taxis, buses, and app-based rides will likely raise fares. This will particularly burden low-income commuters.
- Private Vehicle Users : Many drivers may reduce trips or shift to carpooling or alternative transport modes.
- Freight and Logistics : The cost of moving goods—especially food—will go up, adding to inflation and impacting the final retail price.
- Small Businesses : From delivery-based services to agriculture and tourism, rising fuel bills could hurt profitability.
- Electricity Production : In areas reliant on diesel generators, like rural towns and informal settlements, electricity costs may surge further.
- What Government and Analysts Are Saying
Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE)
The DMRE has acknowledged the upcoming hike and is reviewing options to provide relief. However, no short-term fuel levy cuts have been confirmed.
Automobile Association (AA)
The AA has issued an advisory urging motorists to prepare for the sharp price increase by adjusting travel habits and ensuring fuel efficiency.
Independent Economists
Analysts have raised alarms about inflationary pressures, warning that this fuel hike could result in reduced consumer confidence and slower GDP growth.
Practical Tips to Reduce Fuel Expenses
While consumers can’t control global oil prices, they can adopt several strategies to mitigate the impact:
- Combine errands into fewer trips to save fuel.
- Drive at steady speeds and avoid aggressive acceleration.
- Keep your vehicle well-maintained, especially tyre pressure and engine performance.
- Use rewards programs offered by fuel stations to gain points or discounts.
- Use fuel-tracking apps to locate the cheapest stations nearby.
- Work remotely where possible to cut commuting costs.
Departmental Contacts for Complaints or Queries
If you have concerns or require assistance regarding fuel prices or policy, you can contact the following bodies:
Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE)
- Website: www.energy.gov.za
- Phone: 012 406 7799
- Email: [email protected]
Automobile Association of South Africa (AA)
- Website: www.aa.co.za
- Phone: 0861 000 234
- Email: [email protected]
South African Petroleum Industry Association (SAPIA)
- Website: www.sapia.org.za
- Phone: 011 447 4443
FAQs about SA Highest Petrol Prices
1. How much are petrol prices expected to increase in June 2025?
Petrol prices could go up by over R1.50 per litre compared to May, reaching over R25 per litre in major provinces.
2. Why is the government not cutting fuel levies to help consumers?
Fuel levies fund essential government services, including road maintenance and accident funds. While reductions are discussed, such cuts impact the national budget.
3. Will this price hike affect food prices?
Yes. Higher logistics and delivery costs typically lead to increases in food and essential goods prices.
4. Are there alternatives to petrol and diesel vehicles in South Africa?
Electric vehicles (EVs) are slowly gaining popularity, but high upfront costs and limited infrastructure remain barriers for most consumers.
5. How often do fuel prices change in South Africa?
Fuel prices are reviewed monthly by the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy based on international oil movements and the rand-dollar exchange rate.