If you’ve been feeling the pinch at the petrol station lately, there’s a bit of good news on the horizon.

The latest data suggests that March 2025 could bring a mix of price changes for South African motorists—some for the better, some not so much.

However, with global markets constantly shifting, things could still go either way before the final announcement.

A Look Back: What’s Been Driving Prices Up?

Earlier this month, both petrol and diesel prices saw a significant jump, leaving many South Africans frustrated.

A combination of factors, including the weakening rand against the US dollar and rising oil prices due to ongoing conflict in the Middle East, contributed to the increase.

While some relief may be coming, the situation remains fluid, and final prices will only be confirmed at the beginning of next month.

Latest Fuel Price Projections

According to the most recent data from the Central Energy Fund (CEF), here’s what’s expected for March 2025:

Petrol 93: Increase of 12 cents per litre
Petrol 95: Decrease of 2 cents per litre
Diesel 0.05%: Decrease of 11 cents per litre
Diesel 0.005%: Decrease of 17 cents per litre
Illuminating Paraffin: No expected change

Of course, these projections could shift depending on exchange rate fluctuations and global oil prices in the coming days.

What Affects Fuel Prices in South Africa?

There are two main factors that determine how much you pay at the pump:

The International Price of Petroleum Products: This is mostly driven by crude oil prices, which are influenced by global supply and demand, geopolitical conflicts, and economic trends.
The Rand/Dollar Exchange Rate: Since South Africa buys fuel in US dollars, a weaker rand means higher fuel costs, even if oil prices remain steady.

As of today, Brent crude oil is sitting at $73.24 per barrel, while the exchange rate is at R18.39 to the dollar. Any major shifts in these numbers could impact the final price adjustments.

Current Fuel Prices for February 2025

For those keeping track, here’s what motorists have been paying at the pumps this month:

Inland Prices:

Petrol 93: R22.16 per litre
Petrol 95: R22.41 per litre
Diesel 0.05%: R20.34 per litre
Diesel 0.005%: R20.45 per litre
Illuminating Paraffin: R14.23 per litre

Coastal Prices:

Petrol 93: R21.37 per litre
Petrol 95: R21.62 per litre
Diesel 0.05%: R19.55 per litre
Diesel 0.005%: R19.69 per litre
Illuminating Paraffin: R13.23 per litre

Final Price Confirmation Coming Soon

The Department of Energy will confirm the official petrol and diesel prices for March 2025 in the first week of the month, with the changes taking effect at midnight on Tuesday, March 4.

Until then, it’s best to drive smartly and keep an eye on your fuel consumption.

Every little bit helps when prices are unpredictable!