As January 2025 approaches, South African motorists are eager to see how fuel prices will change. Based on the latest projections, petrol users might experience some relief, while diesel users could face an increase. These price adjustments are influenced by global oil prices and the rand/dollar exchange rate.
Let’s break down the expected price changes, key influencing factors, and how these prices compare to the current fuel rates.
Expected Price Changes
According to the Central Energy Fund (CEF), the estimated changes in fuel prices for January 2025 are as follows:
Fuel Type | Expected Price Change |
---|---|
Petrol 93 Octane | Decrease of 16 cents |
Petrol 95 Octane | Decrease of 4 cents |
Diesel 0.05% Sulfur | Increase of 39 cents |
Diesel 0.005% Sulfur | Increase of 38 cents |
Illuminating Paraffin | Increase of 39 cents |
Petrol prices for both 93 and 95 octane are expected to drop slightly, while diesel and illuminating paraffin prices will likely increase. This means diesel users and businesses relying on paraffin should prepare for higher costs.
Factors Affecting Fuel Prices
South Africa’s fuel prices are mainly determined by two major factors:
Global Oil Prices
The cost of crude oil significantly influences fuel prices. As of mid-November, Brent crude oil is priced at $71.44 per barrel. Factors such as geopolitical tensions, supply disruptions, and decisions by major oil producers affect oil price trends.
Rand/Dollar Exchange Rate
South Africa imports most of its crude oil, meaning the exchange rate between the rand and the US dollar directly affects fuel prices. As of the latest update, the rand stands at R18.09 per US dollar. A weaker rand increases the cost of fuel imports, leading to higher local fuel prices.
Fuel Price Comparison
To get a clearer picture of how these expected changes will impact motorists, let’s compare the projected January prices with November 2025 prices for both inland and coastal regions.
Inland Prices
Fuel Type | November 2025 Price (R/litre) |
---|---|
Petrol 93 Octane | R20.98 |
Petrol 95 Octane | R21.30 |
Diesel 0.05% Sulfur | R18.66 |
Diesel 0.005% Sulfur | R18.77 |
Illuminating Paraffin | R12.87 |
Coastal Prices
Fuel Type | November 2025 Price (R/litre) |
---|---|
Petrol 93 Octane | R20.19 |
Petrol 95 Octane | R20.51 |
Diesel 0.05% Sulfur | R17.87 |
Diesel 0.005% Sulfur | R18.01 |
Illuminating Paraffin | R11.87 |
The slight decrease in petrol prices will benefit motorists, while diesel and paraffin users will have to deal with rising costs.
What This Means for Motorists
South Africans can expect a mixed fuel price adjustment in January 2025. Petrol users will see a slight decrease, but diesel and paraffin price hikes could impact logistics, agriculture, and household energy costs.
For now, keeping an eye on global oil prices and the rand/dollar exchange rate will be essential in predicting further changes in fuel costs.
FAQs
Will petrol prices decrease in January 2025?
Yes, petrol prices are expected to drop by up to 16 cents per litre.
Why are diesel prices increasing?
Diesel prices are rising due to higher global oil prices and a weaker rand.
What is the expected diesel price hike?
Diesel prices could increase by 38-39 cents per litre in January 2025.
How does the exchange rate impact fuel prices?
A weaker rand makes imported crude oil more expensive, raising fuel costs.
Where can I check official fuel price updates?
You can check updates on the CEF or Department of Energy websites.