Cape Town – South African motorists face mixed prospects for December fuel prices, with potential increases on the horizon.
Preliminary data from the Central Energy Fund (CEF) suggests a marginal seven-cent decrease for 93 Unleaded petrol and a slight three-cent increase for 95 Unleaded.
However, the Automobile Association (AA) warns that anticipated adjustments in industry margins could lead to price hikes for both grades, leaving petrol prices near their current levels of R20.51 at the coast and R21.31 in Gauteng.
Diesel prices are expected to rise significantly, with an estimated increase of 48 cents per litre or more. Illuminating paraffin prices may also climb by around 43 cents per litre.
The fluctuations are driven by changes in international fuel product prices and the depreciation of the rand, which worsened following global economic events.
The upcoming announcement from the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) on December 4 will confirm final adjustments, including revisions to storage, distribution, wholesale, and retail margins.
Rising diesel prices are likely to push up general inflation due to increased input costs, affecting retail prices across the economy.
Despite previous promises by President Cyril Ramaphosa, there is no indication of when the government will review the current fuel pricing structure.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
