Here is the fuel price drop for May 2025, as South African motorists are finally getting some relief at the pump.
The Department of Petroleum and Mineral Resources (DMRE) has confirmed significant fuel price cuts effective Wednesday, 7 May 2025, following a sharp drop in global oil prices and despite a weaker rand.
Petrol and diesel prices slashed – Here’s what you’ll pay
From 7 May, both 93 and 95 unleaded petrol prices will drop by 22 cents per litre. Diesel users will enjoy even bigger savings, with price reductions ranging between 41 and 42 cents per litre.
These changes come after a turbulent April that saw oil markets tumble due to international tensions, while local currency fluctuations threatened to offset those gains. Still, the fall in global oil prices overpowered the impact of a weakened rand and tax hikes.
Global oil turmoil drives fuel price changes
International oil markets have been on edge. The average Brent crude oil price plummeted from $71.04 to $66.40 during April.
“This was due to the tariff and trade war initiated by the US, which has raised global economic recession concerns and a possible lower demand for crude oil,” the DMRE explained in a statement.
Analysts point to growing fears of a worldwide economic slowdown and a surprise decision by OPEC+ to ramp up production, which further pushed down prices. These developments have driven down the cost of refined fuels like petrol, diesel, and paraffin in the international market.
Rand vs Dollar: Currency slide nearly offsets gains
While global oil prices dropped, the rand weakened against the US dollar, nearly dulling the benefit. The average exchange rate from 28 March to 1 May 2025 hit R18.8382, compared to R18.2957 in the previous period.
This depreciation led to an increased contribution to the Basic Fuel Price:
Petrol: +29.13 cents per litre
Diesel: +30.34 cents per litre
Illuminating paraffin: +30.24 cents per litre
Still, the falling oil prices helped neutralize the rand’s negative impact.
Fuel taxes hold steady: With one notable exception
In his March 2025 Budget Speech, the Minister of Finance confirmed that the Fuel Levy would remain unchanged at 396.00 c/l for petrol and 384.00 c/l for diesel. The Road Accident Fund (RAF) Levy also stays flat at 218.00 c/l for both.
However, drivers are now paying more for the carbon fuel levy, which rose by 3.00 c/l, bringing it to:
14c/l for petrol
17c/l for diesel
As a result, the total fuel levies increased to 399.00 c/l for petrol and 387.00 c/l for diesel, effective 2 April 2025.
Fuel prices in South Africa are finally falling thanks to a global oil price drop. While currency challenges and tax tweaks soften the impact, motorists will still see noticeable savings in May 2025. Keep your tank full and your wallet happy.
Stay tuned with The South African as we present the fuel price drop for May 2025.
Will this decrease help your pocket?
Let us know by leaving a comment below or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
