January's official fuel prices are in: R1+ drop for diesel drivers

If your friends and family completely ignored the gift guides we published last month, maybe another price decrease for petrol and diesel drivers will make up for that. Even the people buying illuminating paraffin have something to celebrate.

In a feat we thought impossible, the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy has hit a three-month streak for fuel price decreases. The last time the country felt the sting of an increase was back in October 2023 — with November and December’s petrol and diesel prices decreasing by R2.43 and R3.26 respectively. We’re happy to report those numbers are only going to grow. Just, uh, don’t get your hopes up for a repeat in February, yeah?

Fuel for the soul (and wallets)

Better yet, there’s no waiting around for the country’s pumps to change their tune. The change-over already took place at midnight on Wednesday, 3 January 2024. For newbies, these reduced prices have little to do with South Africa’s government. Contributing to those declining fuel prices are the usual kickers, with the Department looking at the average value of the Rand compared to the US Dollar throughout December, which saw a depreciation overall, thus leading to a price slash.

On the other hand, our government does control the slate levy mechanism — one that is rarely on the side of the people. This month, however, is different. Going against the usual order of things, a decrease of 26c/l has been implemented for January. Our advice? Enjoy it while it lasts.