TotalEnergies has increased diesel prices across South Africa, with pump prices now reaching R27.50 per litre at selected service stations. The sharp rise comes as the country faces a fuel supply crunch, rising global oil costs, and a surge in diesel demand.

Reports indicate that the price hike was first observed at a TotalEnergies station in Douglasdale, Johannesburg. According to a leaked communication to station owners, the company instructed a gradual diesel price increase of up to R8 per litre to prevent fuel shortages and manage demand.

Why Diesel Prices Are Rising in South Africa

TotalEnergies cited multiple factors driving the increase:

  • A global fuel supply crisis pushing up wholesale diesel prices

  • An increase of approximately R6 per litre in wholesale costs

  • Higher logistics and distribution expenses

  • A noticeable spike in diesel demand across South Africa

The company warned that without gradual price adjustments, service stations could face stock-outs due to panic buying and abnormal demand.

Breakdown of the Diesel Price Increase

Service stations were advised to implement the increases in phases:

  • 25 March 2026: +R6.00 per litre

  • 26 March 2026: +R1.00 per litre

  • 27 March 2026: +R1.00 per litre

This structured approach was intended to ease pressure on supply chains while aligning pump prices with expected increases.

Early Implementation Across Major Cities

Some stations acted quickly:

  • A TotalEnergies station in Bloemfontein reportedly applied the full R8/litre increase immediately

  • A station in Goodwood, Cape Town confirmed an overnight diesel price hike

These early adjustments suggest growing concern among fuel retailers about maintaining supply during the demand surge.

Price Increase Ahead of Official Adjustment

Notably, the diesel price hike comes before the official fuel price update from the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, which is expected in early April 2026. This preemptive move highlights the urgency of the situation within the fuel supply chain.

What This Means for South African Consumers

The increase to R27.50 per litre will have a ripple effect across the economy, including:

  • Higher transport and logistics costs

  • Increased food and goods prices

  • Added pressure on business operating expenses

With diesel playing a critical role in South Africa’s transport and energy sectors, further price volatility could impact both consumers and businesses in the coming weeks.