SANRAL Increases Toll Tariffs by 3.12 Percent Affecting South African Drivers Across National Highways Starting March 2026

Starting 1 March 2026, drivers across South Africa will notice a slight uptick in toll charges.

The South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) confirmed that toll tariffs will rise by 3.12%, slightly lower than last year’s 4.85% adjustment.

The update, published in the Government Gazette on 5 February, affects the national toll road network and comes as part of SANRAL’s annual review linked to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) from Statistics South Africa (Stats SA).

Why the Increase Matters

SANRAL General Manager for Communications and Marketing, Vusi Mona, explained that toll revenue is essential for keeping South Africa’s road network functional and safe.

“These funds are crucial for maintaining, operating, and improving our toll roads, as well as servicing debt incurred during road development,” he said.

Beyond the asphalt and concrete, Mona emphasized that national roads are vital arteries supporting electricity, water, sanitation, telecommunications, and public transport.

The infrastructure ensures that households, businesses, and industrial users can rely on consistent connectivity across the country.

Balancing Costs and Public Concerns

The agency acknowledges that price hikes can strain motorists, particularly given South Africa’s challenging economic environment.

“SANRAL is empathetic to the public, but adjustments are necessary to continue providing safe and high-quality roads,” Mona added.

The 3.12% increase may seem modest, but for frequent toll users, it represents an additional cost that adds up over time.

While the hike is smaller than last year’s, it underscores the ongoing need to fund maintenance and road upgrades nationwide.

How Toll Revenue Supports the Country

Toll fees don’t just pave the roads; they sustain the entire network of national highways, enabling long-term infrastructure projects.

Investments funded through toll revenue ensure that transport corridors remain reliable, supporting logistics, commuter travel, and even emergency services.

This funding model is particularly important for major arterial routes that carry high volumes of commercial traffic, helping to prevent disruptions in trade and supply chains.

What’s Next?

Motorists should prepare for the March increase, and many may explore alternative routes or electronic toll solutions to mitigate costs.

SANRAL continues to monitor inflation and transport trends, suggesting that future adjustments may remain linked to CPI rather than arbitrary percentages.

Experts also advise that the government and SANRAL could look into tiered tolling or targeted subsidies for frequent commuters to balance affordability with infrastructure sustainability.

Summary

By GARRIN LAMBLEY

Published: 17:26 EST, 20 February 2026

South African drivers will face a 3.12% increase in toll tariffs from 1 March 2026, confirmed by the South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL). The adjustment, slightly lower than last year’s 4.85% rise, is tied to the Consumer Price Index and helps fund maintenance, upgrades, and debt servicing for the national toll road network. SANRAL emphasizes the role of roads in supporting essential services and national commerce while acknowledging public concerns over cost. The increase highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing road infrastructure funding with economic pressures on South African motorists.