There will be some relief for those who drive diesel-powered vehicles from Wednesday, 3 September, as the adjustment to fuel prices was officially announced on Monday afternoon.

It has also been welcomed by the Road Freight Industry, which has faced persistent pressures due to high diesel prices. In August, the price of diesel increased by 65 cents a litre. In July, diesel prices also increased by up to 84 cents per litre.

For September, both grades of petrol will drop by a mere 4 cents a litre, while diesel sees a bigger decrease of up to 57 cents a litre.

Illuminating paraffin will be 37 cents cheaper, and LPG prices will also fall by R1.51 in the Western Cape.

The main reasons for the fuel price adjustments are due to decreases in Brent Crude oil prices, international petroleum product prices, and a slightly stronger rand.

The Road Freight Association says the decrease in diesel costs provides a much-needed respite for the industry, and by extension, for consumers too, if a downward trend is sustained.

Acting CEO Kevin van der Merwe said the road freight industry is the lifeblood of the South African economy, with approximately 85% of all goods transported by road.

He says the persistent pressure of high fuel costs has been a major challenge, squeezing margins and impacting the sustainability of transport businesses, from large corporations to small owner-operators.

“While the decrease is a positive step, it is important to note that the industry continues to face various other headwinds, including volatile exchange rates and geopolitical factors that can quickly reverse any gains. The Association hopes that this positive trend continues and that a period of stable or decreasing fuel prices will allow transporters to recover from previous price shocks and, where possible, pass on savings to their customers and the end-consumer.”