Parliament has taken a step towards fuel price relief, but motorists should not expect cheaper petrol just yet.
The Standing Committee on Appropriations adopted its report on the Second Special Appropriation Bill on October 8, 2026. The bill proposes withdrawing R10 billion from the National Revenue Fund.
The money would go to the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources to help stabilise fuel costs and protect consumers from volatility linked to the conflict in the Middle East.
The move follows October’s R3.33 petrol increase, which has added to the pressure on motorists.
Committee chairperson Dr Mmusi Maimane said consumers should receive immediate relief because the funds are available.
“As Parliament and representatives of the people, we must ensure that fuel prices are reduced so that citizens can enter December with some relief.”
The committee said the R10 billion allocation must deliver measurable results and be supported by detailed expenditure reports.
It also wants National Treasury and the department to report to Parliament on future fuel price shocks and explain when fuel price relief and levy measures would be used.
R10 billion fuel relief bill still needs Parliament’s approval
The report will now be scheduled for debate in the National Assembly. The bill must still pass before any relief can reach motorists.
A parliamentary statement describes the allocation as fiscal capacity for a possible intervention. How the money will be used remains open.
Committee chairperson Ms Tidimalo Legwase said the allocation is a temporary emergency measure that “cannot shield South Africans permanently from oil-price volatility”.
She told a public hearing that Parliament must ensure the money is spent lawfully and transparently, with measurable relief for those who need it.
Rising petrol prices put pressure on motorists and commuters
The financial strain was already evident following the September petrol price adjustment.
Earlier this year, government introduced temporary R3 fuel levy relief to cushion consumers against rising fuel costs. The measure was eventually phased out, with the full levies restored from July.
With inland petrol prices now above R30 a litre, the impact extends beyond private motorists to commuters and the transport industry.
The South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) has maintained that there will be no taxi fare increase for now while it engages government on possible assistance.
We will update this report as the bill progresses through Parliament.
