Johannesburg – After a welcome reprieve at the pumps in November, South African motorists and businesses are bracing for higher fuel costs this December. The Department of Mineral & Petroleum Resources (DMPR) has announced official fuel price adjustments, which will take effect at 00h01 on Wednesday, 3 December 2025 (midnight Tuesday, 2 December 2025), signalling increases across all grades of petrol, diesel, paraffin, and LPG.
The latest adjustments reflect a combination of firmer international oil prices and muted movement in the rand over the past month. Crude oil traded in a slightly higher range during November, fluctuating around $63 a barrel, as ongoing geopolitical uncertainty, particularly surrounding the war in Ukraine, kept global markets cautious. Analysts continue to project potential oversupply scenarios in the coming year, but uncertainty around sanctions and diplomatic pressures has maintained volatility.
Locally, the rand averaged around R17.30/$, benefiting from market confidence following a constructive budget cycle, a modest improvement in South Africa’s credit rating, and generally positive economic sentiment. Despite this relative stability, the marginal rise in global oil prices meant the balance of recoveries tipped into negative territory, leading to the increases announced.
Henry van der Merwe, National Chairperson of the South African Petroleum Retailers Association (SAPRA), part of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), notes the timing of the increases is particularly challenging. “We are entering the busiest travel period of the year, and any upward movement in fuel costs places additional strain on households, public transport users, and small businesses already managing tight margins,” he says.
Van der Merwe highlights that diesel increases, in particular, will have broader economic implications. “Diesel drives key sectors such as agriculture, freight, and manufacturing. An increase of more than 80 cents per litre on 0.005% sulphur diesel will inevitably filter through into distribution and production costs, with knock-on effects for consumers.”
While the rand has provided some relief, global uncertainties remain a significant risk. “A stable currency is encouraging, but the global oil market remains sensitive to geopolitical developments. We urge motorists to plan their festive travel carefully, maintain good vehicle care to maximise fuel efficiency, and stay informed as conditions evolve,” Van der Merwe adds.
Fuel Price Adjustments – Effective 3 December 2025
Petrol – Retail price
- 93 ULP & LRP: 29.00 c/litre increase
- 95 ULP & LRP: 29.00 c/litre increase
Diesel – Wholesale price
- 0.05% Sulphur: 65.48 c/litre increase
- 0.005% Sulphur: 82.48 c/litre increase
Illuminating Paraffin
- Wholesale: 74.48 c/litre increase
- SMNRP: 99.00 c/litre increase
LPG
- Maximum Retail Price: 24.00 c/kg increase
Looking ahead, Van der Merwe emphasises the importance of stability in both global and domestic markets. “Price stability supports planning, travel decisions, and business confidence. SAPRA will continue monitoring key drivers and keep motorists and industry stakeholders informed.”
As South Africans prepare for the festive season, careful budgeting and proactive vehicle maintenance will be key to navigating the renewed pressures at the pumps.
