Why South Africa’s fuel prices are going up in December — And what motorists should expect

South African motorists are heading into December with a fresh round of fuel price increases, adding pressure just as the festive travel season begins. According to newly released month-end indicators from the Central Energy Fund (CEF), both petrol and diesel prices are expected to rise next week — reversing some of the relief experienced in November.

Throughout November, global oil prices climbed steadily, overshadowing the slight recovery of the rand. The result was a sustained under-recovery on fuel, which ultimately determines whether pump prices go up or down. Petrol saw an under-recovery ranging from 20c to 26c per litre, while diesel recorded a sharper shortfall of between 76c and 93c per litre.

Industry projections from multiple energy-monitoring reports indicate that motorists should prepare for the following approximate increases when the new prices come into effect:

Expected Fuel Adjustments for December

• Petrol 93: +19c to +20c per litre

• Petrol 95: +24c to +26c per litre

• Diesel 0.05%: +60c to +72c per litre

• Diesel 0.005%: +77c to +89c per litre

  
  
  

• Illuminating paraffin: +68c per litre

These expected increases follow the welcome cuts announced in November — 51c off petrol and 21c off diesel — but the upward trend signals renewed pressure on households and businesses alike.

Petrol Still Cheaper Than in Early 2025

Interestingly, motorists using 95 Unleaded inland will still pay slightly less than they did in January 2025. At an adjusted price of around R20.54 per litre, petrol remains roughly 26c cheaper than the start of the year.

Diesel, however, tells a different story. The 50ppm grade is expected to cost about 55c more than it did in January, reflecting the heavier impact of global demand — particularly as winter in the northern hemisphere increases heating-related diesel consumption.

Why Prices Are Rising Again

1. Global Oil Volatility
Brent crude averaged $64.14 per barrel in November. Fluctuating supply expectations and heating demand both pushed prices higher, directly influencing South Africa’s basic fuel price.

2. Rand Movement Provided Only Limited Relief
The rand briefly strengthened to below R17/$ after the medium-term budget policy statement and an improved S&P Global rating. While this contributed to a small 4c over-recovery, it was overshadowed by a dramatic 24c to 81c under-recovery driven by high international product prices.

3. Geopolitical Pressure
Global oil markets remain reactive to developments involving OPEC+, US-Russia relations, and broader geopolitical shifts. Any adjustment in production or trade dynamics could either stabilize or worsen price movements in the coming months.

Official Announcement Coming Soon

The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources is expected to confirm the final adjustments early next week. The new prices will take effect at 00:00 on Wednesday, 3 December 2025.

Motorists Should Brace for Costlier Festive Travel

With long-distance trips ahead — from coastal holidays to cross-country family visits — the timing could not be more challenging. The expected increases will make December’s road travel noticeably more expensive for petrol and diesel vehicles alike.

FAQs

1. Why are fuel prices increasing again?
Global oil price volatility and higher international product prices have outweighed the rand’s recovery, leading to fuel under-recoveries.

2. How much will petrol increase in December?
Petrol is expected to rise between 19c and 26c per litre, depending on the grade.

3. Is diesel increasing more than petrol?
Yes. Diesel is expected to rise between 72c and 89c per litre, making it the biggest driver of higher transport and production costs.

4. When will the new prices take effect?
From Wednesday, 3 December 2025, at midnight.

5. Is fuel still cheaper than earlier in the year?
Petrol remains slightly cheaper than in January 2025, but diesel is significantly more expensive.