Fuel Price Relief for South Africans: Petrol and Diesel Costs Drop in May 

Fuel Price Relief for South Africans: Petrol and Diesel Costs Drop in May 

South African motorists have been granted some much-needed financial relief as the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) announced a welcome reduction in fuel prices for May 2025. This change is expected to ease pressure on households and businesses alike, following months of elevated transport costs. 

As of May 1st, the price of petrol has decreased by R1.32 per litre (95 ULP) and R1.29 per litre (93 ULP), while diesel (0.05% sulphur) has dropped by R0.69 per litre, and diesel (0.005% sulphur) by R0.67 per litre. Illuminating paraffin also saw a reduction of R0.28 per litre, offering broader cost relief across different sectors. 

Several factors have contributed to this downward adjustment. Primarily, a stronger rand against the US dollar in recent weeks has lowered the cost of fuel imports. The average rand/dollar exchange rate strengthened to R18.75 from R19.07 during the period under review. Moreover, the average international product prices for petrol and diesel declined amid moderate global oil demand and improved supply stability. 

This is particularly encouraging news ahead of South Africa’s winter months, when energy and transport costs typically climb. For consumers, the reduction means cheaper commuting, potentially lower food distribution costs, and a slight reprieve in inflationary pressures. It may also support local businesses managing tight profit margins amid high interest rates. 

The DMRE emphasized that South Africa adjusts fuel prices monthly based on international oil price movements and currency fluctuations, as part of its Basic Fuel Price (BFP) formula. This ensures that domestic prices reflect actual market dynamics, even as global energy markets remain volatile due to geopolitical tensions and fluctuating demand. 

Although fuel prices remain elevated compared to pre-pandemic levels, May’s drop marks a positive shift. Continued vigilance over global supply chains, OPEC+ production decisions, and domestic currency movements will be key to determining whether this relief continues into the months ahead. 

For now, motorists can enjoy a lighter load at the pump—and hope for sustained reprieve as winter sets in. 

References 

Department of Mineral Resources and Energy. (2025, April 29). Fuel price adjustments effective from 1 May 2025. https://www.energy.gov.za 

BusinessTech. (2025, May 1). Big drop in petrol and diesel prices for South Africa. https://businesstech.co.za 

Fin24. (2025, May 1). Fuel price cuts offer relief for motorists in May. https://www.news24.com/fin24