South African Drivers Can Expect Mixed Fuel Price Changes for March 2025 With Petrol and Diesel Adjustments Set to Take Effect

March is bringing some positive news for drivers in South Africa when it comes to fuel prices, but there’s still room for changes.

While things are looking better for both petrol and diesel owners, we all know how quickly the market can shift.

Fuel Price Changes for March 2025

According to the latest figures from the Central Energy Fund (CEF), there are a few notable adjustments in fuel prices set to take effect by Wednesday, 26 February 2025.

Here’s what vehicle owners can expect:

  • Petrol 93: Increase of 9 cents
  • Petrol 95: Decrease of 4 cents
  • Diesel 0.05%: Decrease of 14 cents
  • Diesel 0.005%: Decrease of 20 cents
  • Illuminating Paraffin: Decrease of 4 cents

If things stay stable until the end of the month (which, given the volatility of both the rand and oil prices, is uncertain), petrol 93 users will see a slight rise, while those using petrol 95 could get a small break with a 4-cent drop.

Diesel prices are also expected to fall by 14 to 20 cents per litre, and illuminating paraffin should see a decrease of 4 cents.

Factors Affecting Fuel Prices in South Africa

The fuel price fluctuations are mainly influenced by two key factors:

  1. International Oil Prices: These are directly tied to global oil market trends and geopolitical situations, such as ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
  2. Rand/Dollar Exchange Rate: South Africa’s fuel prices are also impacted by the exchange rate, as oil is traded in US dollars.

As of the latest update, the Brent crude oil price stands at $72.66 per barrel, and the rand/dollar exchange rate is sitting at R18.46/$. Both of these factors play a significant role in determining how much we pay at the pump.

What’s Coming Next for March

We’ll get the final confirmation on the fuel price changes next month, with the new prices officially kicking in at midnight on Tuesday, 4 March 2025.

But until then, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the market and avoid heavy acceleration!

Current Fuel Prices for February 2025

Here are the current petrol and diesel prices for February 2025, both inland and coastal:

  • Inland Prices:

    • Petrol 93: R22.16
    • Petrol 95: R22.41
    • Diesel 0.05%: R20.34
    • Diesel 0.005%: R20.45
    • Illuminating Paraffin: R14.23
  • Coastal Prices:

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