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The festive season begins on a costly note as fuel prices are set to rise on December 3, adding strain to motorists and consumers alike. Despite the hikes, the Automobile Association (AA) notes that year-end travel plans are unlikely to see large-scale changes.
Price Adjustments Announced
The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy confirmed the following increases:
- Petrol 93 & 95 (ULP & LRP): Up by 17c per litre.
- Diesel (0.05% sulphur): Up by 54.88c per litre.
- Diesel (0.005% sulphur): Up by 55.88c per litre.
- Illuminating Paraffin (wholesale): Up by 48.88c per litre.
- Illuminating Paraffin (retail): Up by 66c per litre.
- Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG): Up by 72c per kg.
Inland Fuel Prices
- Petrol 95: R21.30 per litre.
- Petrol 93: R21.15 per litre.
- Diesel (0.05%): R19.21 per litre.
- Diesel (0.005%): R19.33 per litre.
Factors Behind the Hike
The increase is attributed to:
- Fluctuating international fuel prices since mid-November.
- The depreciation of the rand against the US dollar.
- Adjustments under the Regulatory Accounting System (RAS), which affects margins across various levels of the fuel industry.
Broader Impact
The AA warns that the spike in diesel prices will hit consumers hardest, as higher transport costs may translate to increased prices on essential goods.
Tips for Motorists
The AA urges motorists to budget carefully, monitor fuel usage, and adopt strategies to minimize costs, including:
- Maintaining vehicles for optimal efficiency.
- Planning routes to avoid heavy traffic.
- Resting every two hours or 200km during long trips.
The association also emphasizes road safety during the festive travel season. “A good attitude is just as critical as a well-maintained vehicle. Share the road responsibly, follow the rules, and prioritize safety,” the AA advises.
This fuel price increase, coupled with anticipated traffic, adds a layer of challenge to holiday travel plans, urging consumers to plan wisely and stay cautious.
