Official fuel prices for December: Here’s what you’ll pay for petrol and diesel from Wednesday
Petrol and diesel prices will increase from Wednesday, December 3.
Image: David Ritchie / Independent Media
After a relatively stable year for fuel prices, South Africans will have to dig a little deeper in December, with petrol and diesel prices set to increase.
The Department of Petroleum and Mineral Resources has confirmed that both grades of petrol will increase by 29 cents per litre from December 3, while diesel is set for more significant hikes of between 65 cents and 82 cents
From Wednesday, you can expect to pay R20.58 for a litre of 95 Unleaded petrol at the coast and R21.41 in the inland areas, where 93 Unleaded will cost R21.26. The wholesale price of 50ppm diesel will rise to R19.24 at the coast and R20.00 inland.
The December fuel price increases come as a result of higher international product prices. A slightly stronger rand has lent relief to the situation, lowering the potential price increase by around three cents.
ALSO READ: Why fuel is more expensive inland, and how prices are calculated in South Africa
Brent Crude oil prices remained relatively stable through November, reaching a high of $65 per barrel on November 11 before softening into the $62-63 range in the latter part of the month. Brent Crude averaged $64.14 during the previous review period.
But why is diesel increasing at a faster rate? Diesel prices usually face upward pressure in the latter part of the year due to the colder weather in the northern hemisphere. This drives up demand for heating oil, which is derived from the same crude oil components as diesel.
December's increases follow price cuts of 51 cents for petrol and 21 cents for diesel in November.
ALSO READ: Treasury slammed for increasing fuel levy in 2025 Budget 3.0
South African fuel prices have remained relatively stable throughout 2025. For instance, December’s projected petrol price of R20.54 for 95 Unleaded is still 26 cents cheaper than it was in January 2025. However, 50ppm will be around 55 cents more expensive.
IOL Motoring