From March 4, consumers will face higher petrol and diesel prices due to geopolitical tensions affecting oil supply. The Road Freight Association warns that the price of groceries is also likely to rise due to the fuel hike's impact on the logistics sector.
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Geopolitical tensions are among the leading factors that will see prices and diesel and petrol rise on Wednesday, March 4.
The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy announced that petrol prices will rise by 20 cents per litre, while diesel prices will increase by between 60 and 65 cents per litre, depending on the grade. Illuminating paraffin (wholesale) will increase by 44 cents per litre, and LPGAS by 23 cents per kilogram.
Gavin Kelly, CEO of the Road Freight Association (RFA) said the increase in fuel prices in March 2026 is a direct result of upward pressure on the international price of oil due to both supply and logistics risks following the start of hostilities between Iran and the US and Israel.
He said the RFA has noted with both dismay and concern, that the price of diesel is increasing between R0.60 and R0.65 per litre.
“Given that diesel is the primary source of fuel for most medium and heavy commercial transporters, this will place an immediate cost burden on daily operations. Transporters will be faced with - either immediately or later, depending on their operating models or agreements - factoring this increase (and any others that may arise) into their pricing when offering freight transportation services. This means that the gains which were achieved through the gradual reduction of the basic fuel price during 2025, will be erased and the consumer will, inevitably, begin to feel this change in increasing prices at the till.”
He added that the general economy will also not be immune from the fuel price hikes which will also affect both future decisions regarding the repro rate and the value of the Rand in the pocket of the man on the street.
Abigail Moyo, spokesperson of the trade union UASA said the union was deeply concerned about the Middle East conflict which has driven oil prices from below $60 to over $80 per barrel during the month.
“Due to these geopolitical challenges, all fuel categories will see price increases effective from midnight tomorrow.
“In addition to the Budget announcement of a collective 21-cent-per-litre increase in the general fuel levy, carbon fuel levy, and Road Accident Fund Levy, consumers and motorists should prepare for further increases if geopolitical challenges persist.”
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