After months of pressure on household budgets, South African motorists may finally catch a break in February 2026. Mid-month data from the Central Energy Fund (CEF) suggests that petrol prices are on track for a significant decrease, driven by a stronger rand and softer global oil prices.
For Gauteng residents, where daily commuting, logistics, and transport costs shape the rhythm of life, even a small fuel price adjustment can ripple across the economy. From taxi fares and food prices to delivery services and small businesses, the anticipated reduction offers much-needed relief as the year gains momentum.
While final fuel prices will only be confirmed closer to the implementation date, the current data provides a strong indication of where prices are heading.
ALSO READ: February 2026 Petrol Price Cut on the Cards
What the February 2026 Petrol Price Cut Means for Gauteng
According to the CEF’s mid-month snapshot, petrol prices are currently showing a positive recovery of between 77 and 82 cents per litre, while diesel prices continue to outperform expectations.
This matters particularly in Gauteng, South Africa’s economic engine, where fuel consumption remains high due to dense urban travel, freight corridors, and inter-city movement between Johannesburg, Tshwane, and Ekurhuleni.
Lower fuel prices can ease cost pressures across:
- Public and private transport
- Logistics and supply chains
- Household monthly expenses
- Small and informal businesses are reliant on mobility
As one Johannesburg-based delivery driver put it, “Fuel costs decide whether a week is profitable or not. Even a small drop helps us breathe again.”
Expected Fuel Price Changes for February 2026
Based on current mid-month data, the following price decreases are projected:
- Petrol 93: decrease of 78 cents per litre
- Petrol 95: decrease of 82 cents per litre
- Diesel 0.05% (wholesale): decrease of 93 cents per litre
- Diesel 0.005% (wholesale): decrease of R1.02 per litre
- Illuminating paraffin: decrease of 81 cents per litre
The CEF has cautioned that these figures may still shift before month-end, but the trend remains firmly in motorists’ favour.
How Much You Could Pay at the Pumps in Gauteng
If the current projections hold, this is how prices could reflect at inland fuel stations, including Gauteng:
Inland Fuel Price Comparison
January 2026 Official vs February 2026 Expected
- 93 Petrol: R20.64 → R19.86
- 95 Petrol: R20.75 → R19.93
- Diesel 0.05% (wholesale): R18.41 → R17.48
- Diesel 0.005% (wholesale): R18.52 → R17.50
- Illuminating Paraffin: R12.63 → R11.82
Coastal prices are also expected to drop, although Gauteng motorists will mainly feel the inland adjustment.
Why Are Fuel Prices Dropping?
Two major factors are working in motorists’ favour: the rand-dollar exchange rate and global oil prices.
A Stronger Rand in Early 2026
The rand has entered 2026 on a relatively strong footing, trading around R16.37 to the US dollar. Improved global risk sentiment, stronger trade outcomes, and positive domestic economic signals have helped stabilise the currency.
Economic analysts point to several contributing factors:
- Improved manufacturing data from the United States
- Reduced demand for safe-haven assets
- South Africa’s removal from the grey list
- A stronger domestic economic outlook and recent credit rating upgrades
Because fuel is priced in dollars, a stronger rand directly reduces the cost of imports, including petrol and diesel.
Global Oil Prices Remain Volatile but Softer Overall
While oil prices have faced short-term pressure due to geopolitical tensions in regions like Iran, Venezuela, and the Black Sea, global supply levels continue to outweigh demand.
Brent crude initially dipped below 60 dollars per barrel before rebounding above 66 dollars due to fears of supply disruptions. However, analysts note that rising global production is keeping prices within a relatively narrow range.
This balance has allowed South Africa’s fuel recoveries to remain positive for most of January.
Why Diesel Users Have More to Celebrate
Diesel prices have emerged as the standout performer in the February outlook. With over-recoveries exceeding one rand per litre in some categories, industries that rely heavily on diesel stand to benefit.
This includes:
- Long-haul transport operators
- Construction companies
- Agricultural supply chains
- Municipal and private service fleets
In Gauteng, where diesel fuel logistics hubs, industrial zones, and warehousing networks, the savings could help stabilise operating costs.
What Motorists Should Keep in Mind
While the outlook is positive, motorists should remember:
- Fuel prices are only finalised days before implementation
- Exchange rate volatility can still affect outcomes
- Diesel pump prices may differ from wholesale figures
- LP Gas pricing is not yet available due to limited data
The Department of Petroleum and Mineral Resources will announce the official adjustment shortly before February begins.
Why This Matters Beyond the Forecourt
Fuel prices influence far more than just what motorists pay at the pump. In Gauteng, they affect food inflation, public transport fares, delivery costs, and household budgets.
Lower fuel prices can:
- Reduce pressure on taxi and bus operators
- Help contain food and retail price increases
- Improve margins for small businesses
- Ease commuting costs for workers and students
In a province where millions travel daily for work, education, and trade, fuel relief can translate into broader economic breathing room.
Looking Ahead: What Gauteng Motorists Can Do
As February approaches, motorists are encouraged to:
- Monitor official announcements before adjusting budgets
- Plan refuelling strategically around the price change
- Use any savings to reduce transport-related debt or costs
- Consider fuel-efficient driving habits to extend the benefit
If current trends hold, February 2026 could bring one of the most meaningful fuel price decreases in recent months. For Gauteng motorists navigating rising living costs, the projected cut offers a timely reprieve and a reminder of how global and local forces shape everyday expenses.
Stay informed, plan smartly, and use the relief to strengthen your household or business finances. Keep an eye on official announcements and make every litre count as Gauteng moves into the next phase of 2026 with renewed momentum.
