Fuel Price Update Today – South Africans are waking up to yet another blow to their pockets as fuel prices surge yet again. From 25 July 2025, the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) confirmed a steep hike: petrol will rise by R1.08 per litre and diesel by a shocking R1.34 per litre. This comes at a time when the cost of living is already spiraling due to rising food inflation and utility hikes. For many, July has become a month of survival, not spending. The recent Budget 2025 announcements avoided a VAT hike but sharply increased excise duties on fuel-related sectors, setting the stage for this current spike. The DMRE cited global oil price fluctuations, a weaker rand, and changes in the Slate Levy as the main culprits behind the surge. However, the burden falls squarely on consumers—especially low- and middle-income households already struggling with high electricity tariffs, water rate increases, and expensive groceries. Motorists, small business owners, farmers, and public transport operators will feel the ripple effect almost immediately. Commuter fares may rise. Transported goods will cost more. And monthly household budgets will need serious recalculations. This article breaks down the July 2025 fuel hike, its reasons, impact by province, and how South Africans can navigate this monthly challenge.
Petrol and Diesel Prices from 25 July 2025
The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) has released the latest price structure effective from 25 July 2025. Here’s what motorists will pay going forward:
- Petrol 93 increases by R1.08 per litre
- Petrol 95 increases by R1.08 per litre
- Diesel 0.05% increases by R1.34 per litre
- Diesel 0.005% increases by R1.31 per litre
- Illuminating Paraffin increases by R0.73 per litre
- LP Gas increases by R0.56 per kg
- Slate Levy adjusted upward
Full Fuel Price Table by Grade – July 2025 (Selected Cities)
| Fuel Type | Gauteng Price | Cape Town Price | Durban Price | PE Price | Bloemfontein | Mbombela Price | Polokwane Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petrol 93 (ULP) | R25.29 | R24.65 | R24.98 | R24.59 | R25.09 | R25.18 | R25.12 |
| Petrol 95 (ULP) | R25.64 | R25.02 | R25.31 | R24.93 | R25.46 | R25.57 | R25.48 |
| Diesel 0.05% | R23.89 | R23.28 | R23.59 | R23.24 | R23.71 | R23.82 | R23.77 |
| Diesel 0.005% | R23.99 | R23.37 | R23.67 | R23.33 | R23.80 | R23.91 | R23.84 |
| Paraffin (Retail) | R17.12 | R16.48 | R16.79 | R16.36 | R16.95 | R17.01 | R16.88 |
| LP Gas (per kg) | R42.15 | R41.89 | R42.03 | R41.75 | R42.08 | R42.12 | R42.09 |
| Slate Levy (cents) | +10.00 | +10.00 | +10.00 | +10.00 | +10.00 | +10.00 | +10.00 |
Key Reasons Behind the Fuel Price Hike in July 2025
This increase isn’t random. Multiple global and local factors combined to trigger the fuel hike:
- Brent Crude Oil Prices jumped above $86 per barrel in June 2025.
- Weaker Rand trading at R19.42/USD increased import costs.
- Revised Slate Levy added 10 cents/litre to stabilize under-recoveries.
- Budget 2025 excise impacts indirectly pressured distribution prices.
- Seasonal winter demand raised paraffin and diesel use, affecting pricing.
Breakdown of Fuel Price Components (July 2025)
| Component | Petrol 95 (R/L) | Diesel 0.05% (R/L) |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Fuel Price | R10.88 | R10.31 |
| General Fuel Levy | R3.93 | R3.93 |
| Road Accident Fund | R2.18 | R2.18 |
| Slate Levy | R0.10 | R0.10 |
| Wholesale Margin | R0.48 | R0.41 |
| Retail Margin | R2.25 | N/A |
| Distribution Cost | R1.34 | R1.40 |
| Other Levies & Costs | R4.48 | R4.56 |
How the July 2025 Hike Affects Ordinary South Africans
This surge isn’t just a fuel issue. It hits households, businesses, and commuters at every level.
- Taxi and bus fares likely to rise within weeks.
- Food and goods delivery costs expected to spike mid-July.
- School transport and commuting for workers may get unaffordable.
- Paraffin-reliant homes will suffer more this winter.
- Budget strain for middle-class and lower-income families.
Sector-Wise Impact Summary
| Sector | Impact Summary |
|---|---|
| Public Transport | Taxi fares up by estimated 5–10% |
| Logistics/Freight | Long-distance freight to see +R0.80/km cost rise |
| Small Businesses | Delivery & transport cost increase, margins hit |
| Farming | Diesel hike raises irrigation and harvest costs |
| Food Retail | Prices of staple goods like maize meal and oil expected to rise by 5–8% |
| Education/Travel | School shuttle services may add extra fees |
| Low-Income Families | Already hit by high electricity and food prices now facing paraffin spike |
What Can You Do to Manage the Cost?
In such inflationary times, smart fuel and budget planning are essential. Some tips:
- Carpooling or Ride Sharing to divide the cost.
- Use fuel-saving apps like FuelMate or SA Fuel Prices.
- Limit non-essential trips, especially long routes.
- Switch to energy-efficient public transport or trains when feasible.
- Monitor retailer fuel specials which sometimes offer rebates.
- Switch to diesel generators only if fuel-efficient.
Fuel Efficiency Hacks for Motorists
| Tip | Savings Estimate |
|---|---|
| Maintain tire pressure | Save up to 3% |
| Avoid hard acceleration | Save up to 5% |
| Reduce air-con usage | Save up to 4% |
| Use cruise control on highways | Save up to 7% |
| Remove excess vehicle weight | Save up to 2% |
| Service vehicle regularly | Save up to 6% |
| Drive at optimal speed (90km/h) | Save up to 10% |
Government & DMRE’s Official Response
The DMRE acknowledged the difficulties faced by citizens and stated that the department is monitoring the international market for potential relief. The Slate Levy adjustment was implemented to recover past under-recoveries and keep fuel supply sustainable.
The government also reassured the public that fuel price regulation continues under strict review, especially considering the increased volatility in global energy markets post-2024.
Departmental Contact Information for Fuel-Related Queries
If you’re affected and need help or have complaints, you may contact the following departments:
| Department | Contact Number | Website | |
|---|---|---|---|
| DMRE (Fuel Pricing) | 012 406 7799 | [email protected] | www.energy.gov.za |
| National Energy Regulator | 012 401 4600 | [email protected] | www.nersa.org.za |
| Department of Transport | 012 309 3000 | [email protected] | www.transport.gov.za |
| SA National Consumer Union | 012 428 7122 | [email protected] | www.consumercouncil.org.za |
Budget 2025: No VAT Hike But Sin Tax Increases Add Pressure
While government spared consumers a VAT hike in Budget 2025, it introduced sin tax increases that indirectly affect fuel and transport sectors. Beer, cigarettes, and fuel levy-linked excise hikes were implemented on July.
- Petrol levy not directly hiked, but excise costs up
- Sin taxes on fuel-alternatives (like paraffin and LP Gas) rose
- Transport sector pass-through costs now unavoidable
Fuel & Sin Tax Summary – Post-Budget 2025
| Tax Category | Change in July 2025 |
|---|---|
| Fuel Excise Duty | Indirect increase noted |
| Cigarettes | Up by R1.90 per pack |
| Beer | Up by R10.12 per litre |
| Wine | Up by R4.85 per bottle |
| Spirits | Up by R6.50 per bottle |
| Paraffin VAT | Maintained at zero |
South Africans are therefore not only paying more at the pumps, but also on everyday essentials tied to logistics and transportation.
While this price hike is a heavy blow to household budgets, staying informed and adjusting monthly expenses can help mitigate its worst effects. South Africans should brace for more economic turbulence as global conditions remain volatile.
FAQs
1. When did the fuel price hike take effect?
The new fuel prices took effect from Friday, 25 July 2025.
2. How much is petrol now in Gauteng?
Petrol 95 in Gauteng now costs R25.64 per litre.
3. What caused the July fuel hike?
A weaker rand, rising global crude oil prices, and adjustments to the Slate Levy.
4. Will public transport costs go up?
Yes, taxi and bus fares are expected to rise by 5–10% within weeks.
5. Can I complain about incorrect fuel prices?
Yes. You can contact the DMRE at 012 406 7799 or email [email protected].