Good news for South African motorists — fuel prices are finally heading south this May! After months of feeling the pinch at the pumps, drivers can look forward to meaningful relief, thanks to a mix of international and local factors.
The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) has officially announced a notable decrease in petrol and diesel prices, offering a much-needed breather for households and businesses alike.
Let’s unpack what’s behind this drop, what it means for your wallet, and how you can maximise the benefit.
Reasons
So, why are fuel prices dropping now? Every month, the DMRE adjusts prices based on a cocktail of global oil trends, currency movements, and local market factors. Here’s what made May different:
- Global oil prices eased: Brent crude oil settled around $83 a barrel, down from early-year spikes.
- The Rand gained strength: A slightly stronger Rand against the US Dollar helped lower import costs.
- International fuel product prices dipped: Both petrol and diesel saw a decline globally.
- Geopolitical tensions eased: Less global drama meant steadier markets and reduced demand pressures.
All these ingredients combined to cook up a price drop that’s a win for every driver.
Updates
Alright, let’s talk numbers. The DMRE’s May 2025 fuel adjustments are officially in, and here’s what you’ll pay at the pump starting 1 May:
| Fuel Type | Old Price (R/litre) | New Price (R/litre) | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Petrol 93 (ULP/LRP) | R24.18 | R23.35 | -R0.83 |
| Petrol 95 (ULP/LRP) | R24.66 | R23.72 | -R0.94 |
| Diesel 0.05% | R22.24 | R21.18 | -R1.06 |
| Diesel 0.005% | R22.37 | R21.22 | -R1.15 |
| Illuminating Paraffin | R17.66 | R16.85 | -R0.81 |
| LP Gas (per kg) | R33.95 | R32.75 | -R1.20 |
Not bad, right? And while it might seem like small change per litre, it adds up fast.
Savings
Wondering how much you’ll actually save in a month? Let’s break it down based on typical driving habits:
| Vehicle Type | Monthly Distance | Old Cost | New Cost | Saving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small Sedan (Petrol) | 1,000 km | R1,965 | R1,884 | R81 |
| Medium SUV (Petrol) | 1,200 km | R2,505 | R2,406 | R99 |
| Diesel Bakkie | 1,500 km | R2,865 | R2,705 | R160 |
| Minibus Taxi | 3,000 km | R5,730 | R5,410 | R320 |
| Delivery Van | 4,000 km | R7,640 | R7,220 | R420 |
| Fleet Truck | 5,000 km | R9,550 | R9,020 | R530 |
| Business Vehicle | 2,000 km | R3,930 | R3,768 | R162 |
| Long-Distance Bus | 10,000 km | R19,100 | R18,040 | R1,060 |
Clearly, the more you drive, the bigger your saving.
Impact
This price drop isn’t just a win for private motorists. Here’s what else it means:
- Public transport fares: Taxis and buses might hold off on fare hikes.
- Food & delivery prices: With diesel cheaper, logistics costs could dip — and we might just see slightly cheaper groceries.
- Ride-hailing services: Uber, Bolt, and others could adjust fares or improve driver earnings.
It’s a ripple effect that touches every corner of the economy.
Tips
Even though prices are down, fuel’s still one of the priciest household expenses. Here’s how to stretch every litre:
- Keep your tyre pressure perfect.
- Stop idling and avoid jackrabbit starts.
- Plan routes and combine trips.
- Get regular services for a healthy, efficient engine.
- Use price comparison apps like Fuelio or PetrolSpy.
Every little tweak helps.
With these lower prices and smart driving habits, you’re set to save some serious Rands this May. Whether you’re commuting, road-tripping, or running a delivery business, there’s never been a better time to be behind the wheel.
FAQs
Why are fuel prices dropping in May 2025?
Global oil prices eased and the Rand gained strength.
How much is petrol 95 per litre now?
Petrol 95 now costs R23.72 per litre from 1 May 2025.
Will public transport fares drop too?
Taxi and bus fares may hold steady thanks to cheaper fuel.
How can I save more on fuel?
Keep tyres inflated, avoid idling, and use fuel-saving apps.
Will food prices be affected?
Lower diesel prices could slightly reduce delivery and food costs.
