South African motorists can expect some relief at the pumps in August—if they’re filling up with petrol. But for diesel drivers, the forecast points to a price hike.
Mid-month data from the Central Energy Fund (CEF) paints a mixed picture: while petrol prices are showing an over-recovery—indicating a likely drop—diesel prices are heading in the opposite direction.
Here’s what’s driving the changes:
• Global oil markets have been turbulent, with brief recoveries amid ongoing volatility.
• The rand has held firm against the US dollar, cushioning the impact of oil price swings.
What to Expect in August: According to the CEF’s mid-July update, the projected price changes for next month are:
• Petrol 93: decreases by 24 cents per litre.
• Petrol 95: decreases by 20 cents per litre.
• Diesel 0.05% (wholesale): increases by 63 cents per litre.
• Diesel 0.005% (wholesale): increases by 62 cents per litre.
• Illuminating Paraffin: increases by 26 cents per litre.
No data is currently available for LP Gas as the CEF does not issue daily price snapshots for it.
Important to Know: While the mid-month statistics give a good indication, they are not final. Fuel price adjustments are officially announced at month-end by the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy and could vary depending on economic conditions and exchange rate shifts in the next two weeks.
