The road freight industry is feeling the pinch of recent fuel price increases, saying it has come under immense pressure.
On Tuesday, 31 March 2026, the  Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) announced that prices of 93- and 95-octane petrol would increase by R3.06 per litre.
The price of diesel with 0.05% (500ppm) sulphur increased by R7.37 per litre, and 0.005% (50ppm) sulphur went up by R7.51 per litre.
The new fuel prices followed a one-month R3 reduction in the fuel levy.
Huge cost
Gavin Kelly, CEO of the Road Freight Association (RFA), said the road freight industry’s daily basic diesel cost has risen by 32.5%.
“That’s an increase of 32,5% of a basic cost input that is between 35% and 55%, depending on the vehicle type used, routes used, congestion, working conditions and fuel consumption.
“Whilst not being raised by R10 per litre – the R3 that is being “decreased in the fuel levy” definitely helps – but it will come back in some form or another,” said Kelly.
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Consumers to feel pinch
Kelly added that road freight operators are under immense pressure.
“There are no guarantees that clients will pay the new transport rates – and transporters are in the business of making money, not in the business of making a loss.
“Access to cash reserves to pay for high fuel costs is every transporter’s worry – where to find the funding for day-to-day operations or guarantees with fuel suppliers. Consumers will start feeling the pinch of high fuel prices within a couple of weeks – and fuller impact will filter through towards the end of April,” Kelly said.
Kelly said the “spectre” of further fuel increases remains a reality and threat to all operators.
How much are you paying
With the new fuel price adjustment, Â a litre of 93 unleaded petrol now costs R23.25 per litre, while 95 unleaded is R23.36
The wholesale price of 0.05% (500ppm) diesel increased to R 25.90 per litre, and 0.005% (50ppm) now costs R26.11.
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