Mixed bag for motorists as petrol drops but diesel spikes sharply

South African motorists are in for a mixed adjustment at the pumps this month, as the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) announces a decrease in petrol prices and LPG but a sharp increase in diesel and illuminating paraffin costs, effective from midnight on Tuesday, 5 August 2025.

Commenting on the development, Lebo Ramolahloane, National Vice Chairperson of the South African Petroleum Retailers Association (SAPRA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), said the August adjustment brings temporary relief for private motorists but poses serious challenges for transport operators and other diesel-reliant sectors.

Fuel Price Adjustments – Effective 6 August 2025
Petrol – Retail price
· 93 ULP & LRP: 28.00 c/litre decrease
· 95 ULP & LRP: 28.00 c/litre decrease

Diesel – Wholesale price
· 0.05% Sulphur: 65.00 c/litre increase
· 0.005% Sulphur: 63.00 c/litre increase

Illuminating Paraffin
· Wholesale: 32.00 c/litre increase
· SMNRP: 43.00 c/litre increase

LPG
· Maximum Retail Price: 69.00 c/kg decrease

Ramolahloane explains that the mixed movements are the result of lower international petrol prices and some currency strength, countered by tighter diesel supply and shifts in international refining margins. “Diesel’s steep increase is concerning, especially for the freight and agricultural sectors which are already under pressure. For petroleum retailers, these pricing dynamics continue to erode already thin margins and place pressure on operational sustainability,” he says.

While the petrol decrease is welcome, Ramolahloane cautions that the unpredictability of global oil markets and exchange rate fluctuations continues to impact South Africa’s fuel pricing month to month. “We encourage motorists and businesses to stay informed and plan proactively as we navigate this volatile landscape,” he concludes.