South African motorists could see some relief at the pumps in November, but the picture is looking far better for diesel users than for petrol drivers.
According to News24, current fuel-price data points to a potential diesel decrease in November, while petrol relief could be much smaller once all pricing factors are taken into account.
The outlook comes after government announced temporary fuel levy relief aimed at easing pressure on households and businesses.
Diesel Drivers Could See Bigger Savings
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana confirmed in the 2026 Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement that the fuel levy will be reduced by R3 a litre for diesel and R1.50 a litre for petrol from 4 November to 1 December.
According to News24, the larger diesel levy reduction means motorists using diesel are currently in line for a more noticeable November decrease.
The final adjustment will still depend on movements in international petroleum prices and the rand before the review period closes.
Petrol Relief Could Be Limited
Petrol motorists may not benefit to the same extent.
News24 reports that current market conditions could absorb much of the R1.50-a-litre petrol levy relief, leaving only a relatively small reduction if conditions remain unchanged.
The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources says South Africa’s fuel prices are calculated using both international and domestic factors, including international product prices, the rand-dollar exchange rate and statutory levies.
This means the November outlook can still change before official prices are announced.
October Brought Sharp Increases
Any November relief would follow significant increases in October.
Official DMPR figures show 93 petrol rose by R3.12 a litre and 95 petrol by R3.33. Diesel increased by between R2.84 and R3.24 a litre, depending on the grade.
The department attributed the increases largely to higher international oil and petroleum product prices.
Government says the temporary levy intervention will provide R10 billion in support. From 2 December, the relief will be reduced to R1.50 a litre for diesel and R1 a litre for petrol until 5 January 2027.
For now, November’s final fuel prices remain unconfirmed, with the official adjustment still to be announced by the DMPR.