Fuel prices in South Africa are rising sharply this month with fuel levy increases and international factors being main contributors.

Motorists in South Africa will be paying significantly more for fuel this month as an additional 52 c/litreincrease in fuel levies come into effect.

The Department of Energy has released its fuel price adjustments for April 2018 and they are as follows:

Petrol (both 95 – ULP and LRP): 72.00c/l increasePetrol (both 93 – ULP and LRP): 69.00c/l increaseDiesel (0.05% Sulphur): 65.20c/l increaseDiesel (0.005% Sulphur): 65.20c/l increase

The Rand/US Dollar exchange rate weakened slightly in March 2018 and increasing crude oil prices led to higher Basic Fuel Prices on all petroleum products. In his Budget Speech earlier this year, the former Finance Minister, Malusi Gigaba announced that the General Fuel Levy will increase by 22 c/litre from R3.15 to R3.37 (7% increase), and the RAF Levy will increase by 30 c/litre from R1.63 to R1.93 (18% increase).

“The increases are way above inflation and will have a knock-on effect on other prices, including public transport. The poor, who are already under enormous financial strain, will bear the brunt of these increases, which come at the same time VAT is increasing to 15%. These increases will, unfortunately, result in a heavier burden for the very people who need relief the most” said the AA last month.

"The good news is that Moody’s’ decision to hold its current rating and change its outlook to 'stable' gives South Africa much-needed breathing space to address economic issues. We are hopeful increased political and economic stability will spill over into a more stable outlook for fuel prices" the AA concludes.

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