Diesel prices in SA projected to decrease this June.

Yes, South African diesel prices are tracking a massive market over-recovery of R4.93 to R5.57 per litre, but motorists will not see this full amount cut at the pumps due to incoming government tax adjustments. 

The actual pump price drop on Wednesday, 3 June 2026, is estimated to be between R2.14 and R2.94 per litre, depending on the grade of diesel. 

The Market Data vs. The Pump Price

While international oil product prices crashed over May 2026 to create a major over-recovery, the National Treasury is simultaneously tapering off its temporary fuel levy relief.

• The Market Relief: Month-end data from the Central Energy Fund (CEF) indicates a market-driven over-recovery of R4.93/l for Diesel 0.005% and R5.57/l for Diesel 0.05%.
• The Tax Clawback: In June, the government is adding back R1.96 to R1.97 per litre as it reinstates 50% of the General Fuel Levy that was temporarily cut to buffer previous price shocks.
• The Slate Levy Impact: An increased slate levy of approximately R1.58 per litre is also being implemented by the Fuels Industry Association of South Africa to manage cumulative industry under-recoveries.

Projected June 2026 Fuel Price Adjustments

Because the returning taxes undermine the global market savings, the actual adjustments at the pump are expected to look like this:

While petrol drivers are set to experience an increase because the returning tax outweighs the minor international recovery, diesel drivers will still benefit from a substantial net drop at the pump. 

The Department of Mineral Resources and Petroleum will announce the finalized official changes right before they kick in on the first Wednesday of the month.