Fuel price hike looms for South Africans

SOUTH Africans can expect to pay more for fuel in December, with petrol and diesel prices set to increase.

IOL Motoring reports that, according to month-end data from the Central Energy Fund (CEF), 95 Unleaded petrol is likely to increase by 25 cents, while 93 Unleaded will go up by 20 cents. Diesel prices are expected to rise more significantly, with 500ppm predicted to increase by 64 cents and 50ppm by 81 cents.

From Wednesday, the price of 95 Unleaded petrol is expected to be around R20.54 per litre at the coast and R21.37 in inland areas. The wholesale price of 50ppm diesel will rise to around R19.23 at the coast and R19.99 inland.

"Keep in mind that these predictions are based on unaudited data, and the final price adjustments for December could differ," said officials.

The price increases are attributed to higher international product prices, although a slightly stronger rand has provided some relief.

Crude oil prices remained relatively stable through November, averaging $64.14 per barrel. Diesel prices usually face upward pressure in the latter part of the year due to increased demand for heating oil in the northern hemisphere.

December's increases follow price cuts of 51 cents for petrol and 21 cents for diesel in November. Despite the hike, South African fuel prices have remained relatively stable throughout 2025.