South African motorists using petrol will pay less at the pumps from Wednesday, 5 August 2026, following the latest monthly fuel price adjustments announced by the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources.
The department said both grades of petrol will decrease by 52 cents per litre, while diesel users will face a significant increase of R1.38 cents per litre.
The new adjustments are as follows:
- Petrol 93 (ULP & LRP): Decrease of 52.00 cents per litre
- Petrol 95 (ULP & LRP): Decrease of 52.00 cents per litre
- Diesel (0.05% sulphur): Increase of R1.38 cents per litre
According to the department, the fuel price changes are influenced by both international and local market conditions. The average Brent crude oil price declined from US$86.53 to US$82.37 per barrel during the review period, contributing to lower petrol prices.
However, diesel prices rose sharply due to increased international diesel prices caused by global supply constraints. The department said restrictions on diesel exports by Russia and reduced refinery output in the Middle East pushed diesel prices higher during the period under review.
The rand also weakened slightly against the US dollar, moving from R16.34 to R16.46 per dollar, which added upward pressure to the basic fuel price.
The latest changes mean petrol motorists will enjoy some relief at the pumps this month. At the same time, transport operators and other diesel consumers are expected to feel the impact of the substantial increase in diesel prices.
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