South Africa New Fuel Prices In March 2025: South African motorists and businesses received a slight relief in March 2025, as fuel prices decreased across petrol and diesel categories. The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) announced adjustments that took effect on March 5, 2025, reflecting a mix of global crude oil prices, exchange rates, and supply-demand dynamics. But what do these changes mean for everyday consumers, businesses, and the economy? In this article, we’ll explore:
- Key reasons behind the fuel price drop
- A breakdown of new fuel prices across regions
- Implications for consumers and businesses
- Future outlook: What to expect in the coming months?
South Africa New Fuel Prices In March 2025
The March 2025 fuel price reductions offer slight relief for motorists, businesses, and households. However, future prices will depend on global crude oil trends, exchange rates, and tax adjustments in April 2025.
| Fuel Type | Price Change (cents per litre) | New Price (Inland) | New Price (Coastal) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Petrol 93 (ULP & LRP) | -7 | R22.09 | R21.28 |
| Petrol 95 (ULP & LRP) | -7 | R22.34 | R21.55 |
| Diesel 0.05% sulphur | -17.5 | R20.23 | R19.47 |
| Diesel 0.005% sulphur | -23.5 | R20.23 | R19.47 |
| Illuminating Paraffin | -6 | N/A | N/A |
| Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) | -2 cents per kg | N/A | N/A |
Factors Influencing the South Africa New Fuel Prices In March 2025
1. Declining International Crude Oil Prices
Global crude oil prices dropped from $77.41 to $74.89 per barrel due to oversupply from non-OPEC countries and lower global demand. Additionally, Russia-Ukraine ceasefire talks raised hopes of increased supply, which helped push oil prices lower.
2. Stronger Rand Against the US Dollar
The South African Rand strengthened from R18.73/USD to R18.50/USD during the review period. This lowered the cost of importing fuel, helping drive down local petrol and diesel prices.
3. Mixed Trends in International Fuel Product Prices
While international petrol prices increased due to US refinery shutdowns, diesel prices declined due to reduced global demand. This explains why petrol prices fell slightly (-7c) while diesel prices saw a bigger drop (-23.5c for 0.005% sulphur diesel).
4. No Change in Slate Levy
The Slate Levy remained at 0 cents per litre in March 2025, as the cumulative slate reflected a positive balance of R2.29 billion.
Detailed Breakdown of Fuel Price Adjustments
Petrol Prices
- 93 Octane (ULP & LRP): Now R22.09 inland and R21.28 at the coast after a 7 cents per litre decrease.
- 95 Octane (ULP & LRP): Now R22.34 inland and R21.55 at the coast, also dropping 7 cents per litre.
Diesel Prices
- 0.05% Sulphur: Decreased by 17.5c per litre, bringing the inland price to R20.23 and coastal price to R19.47.
- 0.005% Sulphur: Decreased by 23.5c per litre, with inland and coastal prices both at R20.23 and R19.47, respectively.
Illuminating Paraffin & LPG
- Paraffin: Dropped by 6 cents per litre, benefiting households that rely on it for heating and lighting.
- LPG: Decreased by 2 cents per kilogram, helping reduce costs for homes and businesses using gas.
Impact on Consumers and Businesses
1. Motorists: Slight Savings at the Pump
Although the reduction is modest, filling a 50-litre tank now costs:
- R3.50 less for petrol users
- R8.75–R11.75 less for diesel users
2. Public Transport & Logistics Industry
- Lower diesel prices benefit taxi drivers, trucking companies, and delivery businesses.
- This reduces operational costs, potentially leading to stable or slightly lower transport fares.
3. Food and Goods Prices
- Many industries rely on transport, so a decrease in diesel prices could slow down inflation in food and consumer goods prices.
Future Outlook: Will Prices Continue to Drop?
Possible Factors Affecting Future Prices:
- Crude Oil Market Uncertainty: If global demand remains low, fuel prices may continue stabilizing or decreasing.
- Rand Strength: A stronger Rand helps keep fuel prices down. Any weakening could reverse the trend.
- Fuel Tax Adjustments in April 2025:
- The government may increase levies on fuel, impacting prices.
- Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana has kept levies unchanged so far, but this could change in April.
SASSA SRD Grant in March 2025: How to Claim? Check Eligibility
Are You Eligible for the SASSA R500 Grant in 2025? Check Payment Dates!
World Bank Announces Major Support for South Africa – Here’s What It Means for You!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why did fuel prices drop in March 2025?
Fuel prices fell due to lower crude oil prices, a stronger Rand, and reduced international diesel prices.
2. How does a stronger Rand affect fuel prices?
A stronger Rand means South Africa pays less for imported oil, leading to lower local fuel prices.
3. Will fuel prices increase again in April 2025?
It depends on global oil prices, currency movements, and government tax decisions. If the Rand weakens or crude oil rises, prices may go up.
4. How much does it cost to fill a tank now?
- 50-litre Petrol Tank: ~R1104 (R22.09 per litre inland)
- 50-litre Diesel Tank: ~R1011 (R20.23 per litre inland)
