Petrol Price Increase – The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) has officially announced a sharp increase in petrol prices starting Wednesday, August 7, 2025. Motorists across South Africa will now be paying R1.85 more per litre for all grades of petrol—affecting the wallets of millions of commuters, businesses, and transport operators. This steep rise comes amid a series of global and domestic pressures, including the weakened rand, soaring crude oil prices, and increasing demand in international markets. In recent months, South Africans have seen continuous increases in the cost of living, from food to electricity to fuel. However, this latest fuel price surge marks one of the highest single-month increases in over two years. The DMRE attributes this hike to global oil market instability caused by political tensions in oil-producing countries, a surge in international product prices, and the depreciating exchange rate of the rand against the US dollar. The announcement has sparked concerns across various sectors, particularly the transport, logistics, and retail industries. The rise in petrol prices is expected to create a ripple effect across the economy—raising the cost of goods, impacting service delivery, and putting further pressure on struggling households. The Automobile Association (AA) has urged the government to consider temporary relief measures, such as fuel levies, to cushion the blow on ordinary citizens. Below is a detailed breakdown of how this petrol price increase will impact South Africans and what to expect from August 7 onward.
New Petrol Price Increase Across South Africa’s Major Cities
From August 7, the petrol price will be adjusted across all regions. Here’s how the increase translates per litre for different grades and cities:
- The increase applies to both 93 and 95 unleaded petrol.
- Coastal and inland cities will face different adjusted prices due to transport levies.
- This change reflects a direct hike of R1.85 per litre.
Petrol Prices Per Litre After August 7, 2025 (Inland vs Coastal)
| City | Old Price (93 ULP) | New Price (93 ULP) | Old Price (95 ULP) | New Price (95 ULP) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Johannesburg | R23.12 | R24.97 | R23.54 | R25.39 |
| Pretoria | R23.15 | R25.00 | R23.60 | R25.45 |
| Bloemfontein | R23.18 | R25.03 | R23.65 | R25.50 |
| Cape Town | R22.48 | R24.33 | R22.90 | R24.75 |
| Durban | R22.51 | R24.36 | R22.94 | R24.79 |
| Gqeberha | R22.45 | R24.30 | R22.85 | R24.70 |
| East London | R22.46 | R24.31 | R22.88 | R24.73 |
| Kimberley | R23.10 | R24.95 | R23.52 | R25.37 |
Why Are Petrol Prices Increasing in August?
There are multiple domestic and international reasons behind the R1.85/litre increase, all of which have combined to cause this financial burden.
Key Factors Driving the Petrol Price Increase:
- Weakened Rand: The rand has dropped significantly against the US dollar in recent weeks, directly impacting import costs.
- Higher Crude Oil Prices: Global crude prices are now averaging $88 per barrel, up from $80 in July.
- Rising International Demand: Increased demand during the Northern Hemisphere summer travel season has tightened supply.
- Logistics Constraints: Port delays and supply chain inefficiencies are raising transportation and storage costs.
- Fuel Levies and Taxes: No relief has been offered yet on fuel levies, which make up a large portion of the final pump price.
Economic Ripple Effects Expected in Coming Weeks
The R1.85 increase is likely to cascade through the economy. Experts warn of inflationary pressures and higher household expenses.
Immediate Impacts on Consumers and Businesses:
- Grocery prices may increase due to higher logistics costs.
- Public transport fares could be revised upward within weeks.
- Delivery services and e-hailing rides are expected to cost more.
- Manufacturing and agriculture sectors will see cost increases in production.
- Small businesses may struggle to absorb the sudden increase in fuel costs.
- Disposable income of middle-class families will be significantly reduced.
- Electricity generation (for diesel-powered stations) will become costlier.
Government and Departmental Response So Far
Despite mounting pressure, the government has not yet introduced any fuel levy reductions or financial relief. However, the DMRE has promised to monitor the situation.
Departmental Contact Details for Consumer Queries
If you wish to file a complaint or ask questions about the fuel increase:
| Department | Contact Person | Phone Number | Office Hours | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Department of Mineral Resources | Ms. Zanele Mkhize | 012 444 3000 | zanele.mkhize@dmre.gov.za | 8am – 4pm (Mon–Fri) |
| National Energy Regulator (NERSA) | Mr. Kabelo Dlamini | 012 401 4600 | info@nersa.org.za | 8am – 4pm (Mon–Fri) |
| Department of Transport | Ms. Nomsa Theledi | 012 309 3000 | nomsa.theledi@dot.gov.za | 8am – 4pm (Mon–Fri) |
| Gauteng Fuel Authority | Mr. Thabo Mokoena | 011 355 8000 | thabo.mokoena@gauteng.gov.za | 8am – 4pm (Mon–Fri) |
How to Cope With the Petrol Price Hike
With fuel becoming more expensive, consumers and businesses must adopt smarter fuel-saving habits and cost management strategies.
Practical Tips for Saving on Fuel Costs:
- Carpool whenever possible to cut commuting costs.
- Use public transport during peak petrol hike months.
- Maintain tyre pressure and vehicle servicing to ensure fuel efficiency.
- Limit unnecessary trips—plan multiple errands in one outing.
- Switch to fuel-efficient vehicles if you can afford to upgrade.
- Use fuel-saving apps to find the cheapest filling stations nearby.
- Drive slower and smoother to reduce fuel burn.
- Work from home if your job allows remote operations.
What Could Happen Next Month?
Analysts predict that if the rand continues its downward trend and crude oil remains above $85 per barrel, South Africans could face another fuel increase in September. However, if government intervention occurs—such as reducing the General Fuel Levy or releasing reserves—it could bring temporary relief.
Key Things to Watch in September:
- Rand/USD exchange trends
- Crude oil prices on international markets
- Announcement of new OPEC production quotas
- Possible review of SA’s fuel pricing structure
- Public pressure on Treasury to reduce fuel taxes
FAQs of Petrol Price Increase
1. When will the petrol price increase take effect?
The new fuel prices will come into effect from Wednesday, August 7, 2025.
2. How much more will I pay per litre?
Expect to pay R1.85 more per litre for all grades of petrol.
3. Does this increase affect diesel prices too?
This specific hike was confirmed for petrol; diesel adjustments will be announced separately.
4. Are coastal cities paying less than inland areas?
Yes, due to lower distribution and transport costs, coastal cities generally have cheaper prices.
5. Can the government reduce fuel prices?
Yes, through interventions like suspending levies or releasing reserves, but no such relief has been announced yet.