Plummeting fuel costs bring much-needed ease at gas stations

Plummeting fuel costs bring respite at fuel stations, benefiting motorists and businesses

, and Administrator

2025 September 13 . 8:35 AM

2 min read

Fuel costs decreasing, providing much-needed respite at gas stations

Plummeting fuel costs bring much-needed ease at gas stations

In a welcome development for households and businesses across South Africa, fuel prices have decreased across the board, effective from 00h01 on Wednesday, 3 September 2025. This decrease applies to petrol, diesel, illuminating paraffin, and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG).

Lebo Ramolahloane, the National Vice Chairperson of the South African Petroleum Retailers Association (SAPRA) and a member of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), has stated that the adjustment is well-timed. Ramolahloane, who is also the current National Vice Chairperson of SAPRA, particularly notes the sharp drop in diesel as positive for the transport, agriculture, and logistics sectors.

The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR) has confirmed the price drops. The price of 0.005% Sulphur fuel has decreased by 57.00 c/litre, while the price of 0.05% Sulphur fuel has decreased by 56.00 c/litre. The wholesale price of diesel has also decreased, and the wholesale price of illuminating paraffin has decreased by 37.00 c/litre. The Maximum Retail Price of LPG has decreased by 132.00 c/kg.

The South African National Roads Agency Limited (SMNRP) has announced a 49.00 c/litre decrease in the price of illuminating paraffin. The decrease in petrol retail price is 4.00 c/litre for both 93 ULP & LRP and 95 ULP & LRP.

However, analysts caution that the relief from the fuel price decrease may be temporary due to global geopolitical risks and volatile international markets. In July, inflation reached 3.5%, the highest level in ten months, with food costs identified as the main driver. Rising prices for essentials such as meat and vegetables continue to weigh heavily on consumers.

SAPRA will continue to track developments closely to keep motorists and businesses informed. Ramolahlohane believes the decrease brings real relief to households and businesses, and the latest decrease is expected to provide short-term relief for households and the broader economy. Despite the positive news, it is important for South Africans to remain vigilant and prepare for potential future price increases.