October Fuel Prices: Motorists Can Expect Very Small Changes

South Africans will see only slight changes to petrol and diesel prices this October.

With the rand gaining some ground against the dollar, it’s offsetting recent upticks in international oil prices, keeping any increases fairly mild. According to the latest unaudited figures from the Central Energy Fund, 95 Unleaded could tick up by about three cents, while 93 Unleaded might drop five cents.

The Department of Energy may average that out, potentially leading to a tiny one-cent decrease overall.

Diesel isn’t expected to change much either, with a modest drop of 10 cents for 500ppm and seven cents for 50ppm. Illuminated paraffin should also ease by around 10 cents.

On the ground, this would translate to 95 Unleaded costing roughly R20.79 at the coast and R21.58 in Gauteng, while 93 Unleaded could fall to around R21.42. Diesel prices inland might land at R19.40 for 50ppm and R18.64 at coastal stations.

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The official adjustments will kick in from October 1.

The rand’s recent strength – hitting a one-year high of about R17.30 to the US dollar – has helped keep fuel costs relatively steady despite global price pressures. In fact, petrol and diesel prices remain much the same as they were back in January 2025.

This marks the second month of gentle price tweaks: in September, petrol prices dipped by four cents across the board, and diesel fell by 56 to 57 cents depending on the grade.

For truckers and everyday motorists, October brings only minor relief or changes at the pumps, keeping 2025’s fuel price journey relatively stable.