South African motorists could be paying significantly more at the pumps from Wednesday, 2 September 2026, as the latest fuel price forecasts point to substantial increases for both petrol and diesel. The projected increases follow continued volatility in international oil markets, driven largely by ongoing conflict in the Middle East and disruptions to global oil supplies. For Gauteng residents who rely heavily on private vehicles, public transport and commercial road freight, higher fuel prices are likely to place additional pressure on household budgets and business operating costs.
According to the latest projections from the Central Energy Fund, petrol could increase by around R1 per litre, while diesel is expected to record increases of more than R3 per litre if current market conditions persist.
September Fuel Price Forecast
The latest Central Energy Fund data indicates the following projected adjustments for September:
- Petrol 93 ULP: Increase of approximately 90 cents per litre
- Petrol 95 ULP: Increase of approximately R1.01 per litre
- Diesel 0.05% sulphur: Increase of approximately R2.88 per litre
- Diesel 0.005% sulphur: Increase of approximately R3.09 per litre
- Illuminating paraffin: Increase of approximately R2.24 per litre
These remain month end projections and the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources will announce the official fuel price adjustments before they take effect on 2 September.
Why Fuel Prices Are Rising Again
The projected increases are largely linked to higher international oil prices.
According to market data, Brent crude has remained above levels seen before the latest escalation of conflict involving Iran and the United States.
The ongoing geopolitical tensions have affected shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil transport routes.
Although oil prices have eased from earlier highs recorded this year, they remain significantly above pre conflict levels.
Recent reports indicate Brent crude has been trading around the 90 to 95 US dollar per barrel range during August, keeping pressure on fuel recoveries in South Africa.
Petrol Recoveries Reverse Course
Fuel recoveries improved briefly during August as oil prices softened and hopes grew that geopolitical tensions would ease.
However, those gains were reversed after renewed concerns over additional United States sanctions against Iran pushed oil prices higher once again.
According to the latest Central Energy Fund recoveries:
- Petrol 93 shows an under recovery of approximately 88 cents per litre
- Petrol 95 shows an under recovery of approximately 99 cents per litre
- Diesel recoveries remain significantly in the red at between R2.89 and R3.10 per litre
These recoveries determine whether motorists are likely to see increases or decreases when the official monthly fuel prices are announced.
Diesel Drivers Face the Biggest Increase
While petrol motorists are expected to face increases of around R1 per litre, diesel users could be hit much harder.
Diesel is widely used by freight companies, buses, agricultural vehicles and many commercial operators.
Higher diesel prices often have a broader impact on the economy because they increase transport and logistics costs across multiple industries.
Those costs can eventually affect the prices consumers pay for goods delivered by road.
The Rand Is Offering Some Relief
One factor helping to limit even larger fuel price increases is the performance of the South African rand.
The local currency has remained relatively resilient against the United States dollar despite ongoing international uncertainty.
According to recent market data, the stronger rand is helping offset part of the increase in international oil prices by reducing the cost of imported fuel.
However, the benefit has not been enough to counteract the continued rise in global crude oil prices.
What Gauteng Motorists Could Pay
If the current projections remain unchanged, inland fuel prices could reach the following levels from 2 September:
- Petrol 93 ULP: Approximately R26.30 per litre
- Petrol 95 ULP: Approximately R26.57 per litre
- Diesel 0.05% sulphur: Approximately R29.05 per litre
- Diesel 0.005% sulphur: Approximately R29.99 per litre
These figures remain projections until confirmed by the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources.
Tips to Reduce Fuel Costs
With fuel prices expected to increase again, motorists can take steps to reduce fuel consumption.
These include:
- Avoid harsh acceleration and sudden braking.
- Check tyre pressure regularly.
- Remove unnecessary weight from the vehicle.
- Combine multiple errands into one trip.
- Keep the vehicle properly serviced.
- Avoid excessive idling.
- Plan journeys to avoid peak traffic where possible.
Even small improvements in driving habits can reduce monthly fuel costs.
What This Means for Gauteng Residents
Gauteng has one of South Africa’s highest concentrations of private vehicles, taxis, buses and freight operators.
An increase of around R1 per litre for petrol and more than R3 per litre for diesel could affect daily commuters, businesses and transport operators across Johannesburg, Tshwane and Ekurhuleni.
Higher fuel prices may also place additional pressure on transport costs and the price of goods moved by road, particularly if diesel increases remain at current projected levels.
Motorists are encouraged to budget for the expected increases while waiting for the official announcement from the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the September fuel price changes take effect?
If confirmed, the new fuel prices will come into effect on Wednesday, 2 September 2026.
Why are fuel prices increasing?
The projected increases are mainly linked to higher international oil prices and ongoing geopolitical tensions affecting global oil supplies.
Which fuel is expected to increase the most?
Diesel is currently forecast to record the largest increase, with projected hikes of around R2.88 to R3.09 per litre.
Are these fuel prices final?
No. These are projections based on Central Energy Fund data. The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources will announce the official adjustments before implementation.
Can the forecast still change?
Yes. Fuel price projections may change before month end depending on movements in international oil prices and the rand dollar exchange rate.
Final Thoughts
South African motorists are facing the prospect of another month of higher fuel costs as global oil markets remain under pressure. While the stronger rand continues to provide some support, international oil prices remain the primary driver of the projected September increases. With the official announcement still to come, motorists and businesses across Gauteng will be watching closely as the month draws to a close.
