The revised fuel price adjustments came into effect on Wednesday, 6 May.
The department issued an erratum after discovering that the additional 93c/ℓ reduction in the diesel fuel levy had mistakenly been captured as 0,93c/l during the calculation process.
“This resulted in a higher increase in the wholesale price of diesel of R6,19/l instead of R5,27/ℓ,” the DMPR said in a statement.
The correction lowers the diesel increase by 92,07c/ℓ compared with Monday’s announcement and brings the adjustment in line with government’s temporary diesel levy relief measures introduced earlier this year.
While the correction eases some pressure on producers, the latest increase still represents a significant cost escalation for farmers already contending with high input costs, weak margins and rising transport expenses.
Diesel remains one of agriculture’s largest operating costs, particularly for grain, livestock and horticultural producers reliant on mechanised operations, irrigation systems, on-farm transport and backup power generation.
The revised May 2026 fuel price adjustments are:
- Petrol 93 and 95 (ULP and LRP): increase of R3,27/ℓ
- Diesel 0,05% sulphur: increase of R5,27/ℓ
- Diesel 0,005% sulphur: increase of R5,27/ℓ
- Illuminating paraffin (wholesale): increase of R4,22/ℓ
- Single maximum national retail price for illuminating paraffin: increase of R5,63/ℓ
- Maximum retail price of LP gas: increase of R5,07/kg in Gauteng and R5,78/kg in the Western Cape
The new inland and coastal diesel prices are now above R30/ℓ, with inland 0,005% sulphur diesel reaching R31,88/ℓ.
Government first introduced temporary fuel levy relief in April following sharp increases in international oil prices linked to geopolitical tensions involving Iran. The intervention was intended to shield consumers and businesses from the full impact of rising fuel costs and was initially expected to remain in place for only one month.
National Treasury has since extended the measure into May, but the relief will be phased out gradually over the next two months.
From June, R1,97/ℓ will be added back to the diesel price, followed by a further R1,96/ℓ in July as the temporary levy reduction comes to an end.
Higher diesel prices also have knock-on effects throughout the agricultural value chain, increasing the costs of fertiliser distribution, harvesting, cold-chain logistics and food transport.
The DMPR apologised for the error and said it remained committed to accurate communication of fuel price adjustments.
“The error is highly regrettable, and the department apologises for any inconvenience caused ahead of the fuel price adjustment.
“The department remains committed to providing timely, accurate and transparent information to the public and all stakeholders,” the department said.
