South African motorists are waking up to sharply higher fuel prices today, with petrol 95 breaking the R30-a-litre mark inland for the first time. The new prices came into effect on Wednesday, 7 October 2026, following a major increase announced by the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources.
Petrol 93 has increased by R3.12 per litre, bringing the price to R29.09 per litre on the coast and R29.88 inland. Petrol 95 has risen by R3.33 per litre, reaching R29.38 per litre on the coast and R30.25 inland. Diesel has also increased by R2.84 per litre for 0.05% sulphur and R3.24 per litre for 0.005% sulphur.
The sharp increase is mainly linked to rising international oil prices. The average Brent crude price climbed from US$87.89 to US$101 per barrel, with tensions involving the US and Iran, uncertainty around oil supplies through the Strait of Hormuz, higher shipping costs and lower global inventories contributing to the rise.
The increase will put additional pressure on households, commuters and businesses. A 50-litre tank of petrol 95 now costs about R1,469 on the coast, meaning motorists will pay R166.50 more for the same amount of fuel than before the increase.
With fuel prices affecting transport and the cost of moving goods, consumers could also feel the impact through higher prices for everyday products and services. Motorists will now be hoping that falling international oil prices or a stronger rand can provide some relief when the next monthly fuel adjustment is announced.
Main image: Business Day
