Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana has announced an extension of South Africa’s temporary fuel levy relief, offering motorists short-term reprieve as global oil prices continue to rise.The R3 per litre reduction on petrol will remain in place until June 2, while diesel users will benefit from an increased relief of 93 cents.
The changes will take effect from May 6, just as the initial relief measures were due to expire.Godongwana said the decision was driven by ongoing instability in the Middle East, which has placed sustained pressure on international oil markets. This has translated into rising domestic fuel costs, placing additional strain on already burdened households.
From June, the relief will be gradually reduced, with petrol relief dropping to R1.50 per litre and diesel to R1.96. By July 1, the fuel levy is expected to return to its full rate.Meanwhile, projections from the Central Energy Fund indicate petrol prices could rise by up to R2 per litre in May, while diesel may surge by over R5, underscoring continued uncertainty.
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