Fuel Price Adjustments Effective June 4, 2025
Natalie Nyathi
The Department of Petroleum and Mineral Resources has announced new fuel price adjustments set to take effect on June 4, 2025. Following fluctuations in oil prices and the strengthening of the rand against the dollar throughout May, consumers can expect some minor reductions in fuel costs this month.
May experienced notable volatility in oil prices, influenced by various global factors. As the rand appreciated against the US dollar, fuel prices were initially set for a decrease. However, an increase in the general fuel levy from the recent budget offset some of these gains, resulting in a smaller cut than initially anticipated.
The adjustments will see a decrease of 5 cents per litre for both 93 and 95 petrol. Diesel prices will see a more significant reduction, with a cut of 37 cents per litre for both grades of diesel. The price of illuminating paraffin will decrease by 56 cents per litre, while LPGAS will drop by 89 cents per kilogram.
Breakdown of Changes:
- Petrol 93: Decrease of 5 cents/litre
- Petrol 95: Decrease of 5 cents/litre
- Diesel 0.05% (wholesale): Decrease of 37 cents/litre
- Diesel 0.005% (wholesale): Decrease of 37 cents/litre
- Illuminating Paraffin: Decrease of 56 cents/litre
- LPGAS: Decrease of 89 cents/kg
Inland prices for fuel show slight changes from May to June. The price of 93 petrol decreased from R21.29 to R21.24, while 95 petrol went from R21.40 to R21.35. Diesel 0.05% (wholesale) saw a drop from R18.90 to R18.53, and Diesel 0.005% (wholesale) fell from R18.94 to R18.57. The price of illuminating paraffin decreased from R13.05 to R12.49, and LPGAS dropped from R38.23 to R37.34.
On the coastal side, the price for 93 petrol decreased from R20.50 to R20.45, while 95 petrol went down from R20.57 to R20.52. Diesel 0.05% (wholesale) dropped from R18.07 to R17.70, and Diesel 0.005% (wholesale) fell from R18.18 to R17.81. Illuminating paraffin decreased from R12.03 to R11.47, and LPGAS fell from R35.07 to R34.18.
These fuel price changes are expected to have a ripple effect on consumer prices in shops. Increased fuel costs often lead to higher transportation expenses, which in turn can raise the prices of goods. This situation has raised concerns among consumers, especially given the current economic climate.
EFF treasurer Omphile Maotwe ,in an interview with Newsroom Africa, highlighted that the increase in the fuel levy will disproportionately affect poorer communities. She argued that this increase is more detrimental than the VAT hike that was rejected in March, as it will directly impact shop prices and further strain consumers who are already struggling. Many families depend on social grants, and the additional financial burden from rising fuel costs could exacerbate their hardships.
The overall price adjustments are attributed to a combination of factors. The rand’s appreciation against the dollar contributed to a lower basic fuel price. The Minister of Finance announced an increase in the fuel levy, which will now stand at 415.0 cents per litre for petrol and 402.0 cents per litre for diesel. Revised transport tariffs for specific Magisterial District Zones will result in minor increases of between 0.1 cents to 2.6 cents per litre for petrol and diesel.
The fuel price changes starting in June result from a mix of global market trends and local economic decisions. Although the price cuts are small, they offer some relief to consumers during ongoing fluctuations in the global oil market.
