South African motorists could face another painful increase at the pumps in October, with petrol and diesel prices projected to rise sharply.
According to the latest Central Energy Fund (CEF) forecast, fuel prices could increase from 7 October 2026, although the final adjustments will be confirmed by the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources.
The projections suggest increases of:
- 93 petrol: +R1.87 per litre
- 95 petrol: +R1.99 per litre
- Diesel 500ppm: +R2.16 per litre
- Diesel 50ppm: +R2.41 per litre
- Illuminating paraffin: +R2.32 per litre
If the forecast holds, inland motorists could pay around R28.63 per litre for 93 petrol and R28.91 for 95 petrol.
At the coast, 95 petrol could reach approximately R28.04 per litre.
Diesel prices could climb above R30 per litre, with inland diesel potentially reaching between R31.27 and R32.46 per litre, depending on the grade.
Oil Prices Drive The Increase
The projected increases are largely linked to higher international oil prices amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and disruptions to petroleum supply.
Oil was trading at around $97 a barrel at the time of the report, adding further pressure to South Africa’s fuel costs.
The figures remain projections rather than final pump prices, meaning motorists will have to wait for the official October adjustment before knowing exactly how much they will pay.
For drivers already feeling the squeeze from rising living costs, another jump at the pumps could make October an expensive month.
Main Image: The South African
