Mixed Fortunes at South African Pumps as Petrol Rises Slightly, Diesel and Paraffin Drop from October 1

South African drivers and households are in for a varied start to October, with the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources announcing small hikes in petrol prices alongside welcome drops for diesel, illuminating paraffin, and LP Gas. Effective from Wednesday, 1 October 2025, these changes reflect a mix of global oil trends, geopolitical tensions, and a stronger Rand, offering some relief amid ongoing economic pressures. While petrol users face minor increases, the reductions in diesel and household fuels could ease costs for transport operators and low-income families reliant on paraffin for cooking and heating. As fuel prices continue to fluctuate, many are calling for longer-term strategies to shield consumers from international volatility.
The adjustments come at a time when South Africans are grappling with high living costs, with fuel playing a key role in everything from commuting to food prices. This latest tweak follows a pattern of ups and downs in 2025, driven by events like the Russia-Ukraine conflict and Middle East tensions. This article breaks down the new prices, reasons behind the changes, impacts on everyday life, expert views, and tips for saving at the pump.

Petrol Edges Up, Diesel Provides Relief

The department’s announcement spells out the shifts:

• Petrol 93 (ULP and LRP): 1c increase.
• Petrol 95 (ULP and LRP): 8c increase.
• Diesel (0.05% sulphur): 10c decrease.
• Diesel (0.005% sulphur): 8c decrease.
• Illuminating Paraffin (wholesale): 11c decrease.
• Single Maximum National Retail Price for Illuminating Paraffin: 15c decrease.

Maximum Retail Price of LP Gas: 17c decrease and 19c decrease in the Western Cape.
Inland prices will see 95-octane petrol climb to R21.05 per litre from R20.97, while coastal areas hit R20.26 from R20.18. Diesel inland drops to R18.51 per litre for 0.05% sulphur, offering savings for truckers and farmers. Paraffin users get a break, with wholesale prices falling to R12.49 inland, helping poorer homes where it’s a main fuel source.
These tweaks mark the fourth straight month of diesel cuts, down 30c since July, but petrol’s slight rise ends a three-month drop streak. LP Gas decreases vary by zone, with Zone 9C (Gauteng) at R26.28 per kg, down 17c.

Global Factors Driving the Changes

The department pinned the adjustments on world events and local strengths. “The average Brent Crude oil price increased slightly from US$67.01 to US$67.16 during the period under review. The increase in the price of crude oil is due to the geopolitical risks emanating from the Russia and Ukraine conflict as well as the Middle East conflict. The impact of the geopolitical risks outweighs the OPEC+ recent announcement to increase production in October, which could ultimately lead to increased supply and lower prices,” they explained.

International petroleum prices followed oil’s uptick, adding 16.93c/l to petrol, 8.13c/l to diesel, and 4.23c/l to paraffin in Basic Fuel Prices. But the Rand’s strength against the US dollar—from 17.73 to 17.49—softened the blow, cutting contributions by 14.27c/l for petrol, 15.40c/l for diesel, and 14.79c/l for paraffin. Propane and butane prices held steady, but lower shipping costs helped LP Gas drops.
Analysts note OPEC+‘s planned output hike from October could ease prices later, but tensions in Ukraine and the Middle East keep risks high. Locally, the Rand’s gains from better sentiment helped offset oil’s rise.

Impacts on Households and Economy: Relief for Some, Pinch for Others

For drivers, the small petrol hikes add a few rands to fill-ups—about R4 extra for a 50-litre tank of 95-octane. But diesel’s drop could lower transport costs, easing prices for goods like food and fuel deliveries. Paraffin and LP Gas cuts help poorer homes, where these fuels are key for cooking and heating, potentially saving R10-15 on monthly buys.

Economists say diesel relief aids industries like farming and logistics, keeping inflation in check. But petrol’s rise hits commuters and small businesses, adding to high living costs with inflation at 4.4% in August. Overall, it’s a net positive, with diesel and gas savings outweighing petrol bumps for many.

Expert Views: Volatility Ahead but Some Optimism

AA spokesperson Layton Beard called it “mixed news,” noting diesel’s fourth straight drop offers relief but petrol’s end to declines disappoints. Analysts predict potential drops in November if OPEC+ boosts supply and Rand holds firm. But global risks like wars keep prices unpredictable.

🔴Central News Weekly Edition | Issue 115 🔴Download the Latest Print and E-Edition | Headline: Ngwathe Municipality Refuses to Back Down, Heads to Supreme Court of Appeal

Download Here:

Direct PDF File Here:

https://centralnews.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Central-News-Issue-114-1.pdf

Read all our publications on magzter:

https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues

Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content,  Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.

We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.

Advertisement:

To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za

For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za

Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za

General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za