Fuel shock looms: October set to smash South Africa’s price records – Here’s how much you might pay
With the latest figures showing recoveries deep in the red, motorists have no sign of relief.
South African drivers are bracing for fuel prices that could shatter previous all-time highs in October, adding to the financial strain already felt by households grappling with a weakening economy and geopolitical turmoil. The country's economic woes deepened in the second quarter of 2026, with GDP contracting by 0.2%, a blow compounded by the Middle East conflict that has disrupted global trade and propelled energy costs higher.
South Africa's Central Energy Fund reports that consumers are already paying more than they should, with petrol already $1.81 (93 octane) and $1.93 (95 octane) per litre below the recovery level. If the current trend persists, petrol prices could soar to $28.85 per litre by October, surpassing the June 2026 record of $28.06 set during the Iran War crisis.
Diesel prices are expected to follow a similar trajectory, potentially reaching $32.08 per litre, a record high that would eclipse the May 2026 peak of $31.88. These projections paint a grim picture for motorists, who may face additional costs of $1.81 per litre for petrol 93, $1.93 per litre for petrol 95, $1.73 per litre for diesel (0.05% sulphur), and $2.03 per litre for diesel (0.005% sulphur) in October.
The looming price hikes are a direct consequence of the ongoing Middle East and Ukraine conflicts, which have rattled energy markets and pushed global oil prices near $100 a barrel.
Written by urgent.news from The Citizen's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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