March 2026 Fuel Prices Announced: Petrol & Diesel Increase from Wednesday – More Hikes Coming in April
Petrol & Diesel Increase from Wednesday – More Hikes Coming in April
South African motorists will pay more at the pumps from Wednesday, 4 March 2026, following the latest official fuel price adjustment confirmed by the Department of Petroleum and Mineral Resources.
Although fuel prices remain near four-year lows, the relief period may be ending as global oil prices climb and new fuel taxes take effect in April.
Official March 2026 Fuel Price Increases
The Department confirmed the following adjustments:
Petrol Increases
- 93 Unleaded: +20 cents per litre
- 95 Unleaded: +20 cents per litre
Diesel Increases
- 500ppm Diesel: +62 cents per litre
- 50ppm Diesel: +65 cents per litre
New Fuel Prices from 4 March 2026
Inland (Gauteng and surrounding areas)
- 95 Unleaded: R20.30 per litre
- 93 Unleaded: R20.19 per litre
- Diesel (wholesale): R19.17 per litre
Coastal Regions
- 95 Unleaded: R19.47 per litre
- Diesel (wholesale): R17.84 per litre
Why Fuel Prices Are Increasing in March
According to the Department, the increase is largely due to elevated international fuel product prices recorded during February.
Key contributing factors:
- Higher global shipping rates
- Geopolitical tension between the United States and Iran
- Rising international crude oil prices
The average price of Brent Crude oil increased from $64.08 to $69.08 during the review period.
However, a stronger South African rand helped cushion the blow. Without currency support, petrol could have increased by approximately 35 cents per litre and diesel by nearly 80 cents per litre.
More Fuel Price Pain Expected in April 2026
March’s increase may only be the beginning.
On Wednesday morning, Brent Crude was trading at $77.79, which is 11.4% higher than the previous week. The spike has been largely attributed to escalating tensions in the Middle East, pushing global oil markets upward.
But global oil isn’t the only issue.
2026 Budget: Fuel Tax and Levy Increases Confirmed
During the 2026 Budget Speech, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana confirmed adjustments to fuel-related levies that will take effect on 1 April 2026.
Confirmed Levy Adjustments
General Fuel Levy (GFL)
- +9 cents per litre (petrol)
- +8 cents per litre (diesel)
Carbon Fuel Levy
- +5 cents per litre (petrol)
- +6 cents per litre (diesel)
Road Accident Fund (RAF) Levy
- +7 cents per litre (both fuel types)
Total Additional Tax Burden
Motorists will face an additional 21 cents per litre across both petrol and diesel from April.
After 1 April 2026:
- RAF Levy: R2.25 per litre
- GFL on Petrol: R4.10 per litre
This means a larger portion of every litre purchased goes directly to government levies rather than fuel production or distribution costs.
Industry Reaction
Bobby Ramagwede, CEO of the Automobile Association, warned that inflation-linked increases will further strain households already under financial pressure.
He stated that while tax adjustments may be defensible in principle, simply allocating more funding to the Road Accident Fund does little to address its long-standing inefficiencies.
He also argued that reducing mobility costs could stimulate economic activity, especially at a time when consumers are facing rising living expenses.
Are We Heading for a Fuel Price Cycle?
Several warning signs suggest continued upward pressure:
- Brent Crude trending above $77
- Ongoing geopolitical instability
- Rising fuel levies
- Shipping cost volatility
- Currency fluctuations
If global oil remains elevated through March, April’s official fuel price adjustment could reflect both tax increases and market-driven increases.
What This Means for South African Households
Fuel prices impact more than just motorists. They affect:
- Food prices (transport costs)
- Public transport fares
- Courier and delivery costs
- Small business logistics
- Inflation rates
Higher diesel prices, in particular, have a direct impact on supply chains across the country.
Quick Fuel Price Comparison (March 2026)
| Fuel Type | February Price | March Increase | New Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 95 ULP Inland | R20.10 | +20c | R20.30 |
| 95 ULP Coast | R19.27 | +20c | R19.47 |
| Diesel Inland | R18.55 | +62c/+65c | R19.17 |
| Diesel Coast | R17.22 | +62c/+65c | R17.84 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When do the new fuel prices take effect?
Wednesday, 4 March 2026.
How much is petrol increasing?
20 cents per litre for both 93 and 95 Unleaded.
How much is diesel increasing?
Between 62 cents and 65 cents per litre depending on grade.
Why is diesel increasing more than petrol?
International diesel product prices rose more sharply during February.
Will fuel prices increase again in April?
Yes. Confirmed tax and levy adjustments take effect on 1 April 2026, and oil price trends suggest further upward pressure.
