fuel
Diesel Price in South Africa (2026)
Quick Answer
Diesel in South Africa currently costs between R31 and R33 per litre depending on sulphur grade and whether you are inland or at the coast.
0.05% diesel inland is around R32.09/litre, while coastal prices are slightly lower at around R31.22/litre.
diesel price insights for South Africa.
Diesel Prices in South Africa
Diesel is widely used in South Africa for taxis, trucks, generators, farming equipment, and diesel-powered passenger vehicles. Unlike petrol, diesel pricing includes wholesale and retail margins that can vary slightly between filling stations. Coastal cities such as Durban generally have slightly lower diesel prices than inland areas like Johannesburg due to reduced transport costs.
2026 Diesel Price Table (ZAR)
| Product | Price |
|---|---|
| Diesel 0.05% (Inland) | R32.09/litre |
| Diesel 0.005% (Inland) | R32.30/litre |
| Diesel 0.05% (Coastal) | R31.22/litre |
| Diesel 0.005% (Coastal) | R31.54/litre |
| Bulk Commercial Diesel | Varies by supplier and volume |
What to Know About Diesel Pricing
Diesel prices in South Africa are heavily influenced by international oil prices, the rand-dollar exchange rate, fuel levies, and transport costs. In May 2026, diesel experienced one of the largest increases in recent years because of rising global crude oil prices and pressure on fuel imports.
How to Save on Diesel
- Compare prices between filling stations because diesel margins can vary
- Use fuel rewards programs where possible
- Maintain proper tyre pressure and servicing to improve fuel efficiency
What Affects the Price of diesel?
- Global crude oil prices
- Rand to US dollar exchange rate
- Government levies and transport costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is diesel sometimes more expensive than petrol?
Diesel prices are affected differently by international refining demand and wholesale pricing structures.
Why are coastal diesel prices cheaper?
Fuel arriving at ports reduces transport and distribution costs for coastal regions.
How often do diesel prices change in South Africa?
Diesel prices are usually adjusted monthly based on market conditions.