Relief for Large Diesel Users in South Africa
Large diesel users in South Africa are set to benefit from significant cost relief after the South African Revenue Service (South African Revenue Service) confirmed changes to the Diesel Refund Scheme. From 1 April 2026, qualifying industries will be able to claim back 100% of eligible diesel usage, an increase from the current 80% refund limit.
The change will apply mainly to off-road diesel users in sectors such as agriculture, forestry and mining, which rely heavily on diesel for daily operations. The refund allows these industries to recover portions of the general fuel levy and Road Accident Fund levy, helping to offset rising fuel costs and improve operational sustainability.
According to BusinessTech, the adjustment follows a commitment made by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana during the 2025 Budget Speech. SARS has indicated that system updates are already underway, with the full refund expected to reflect in diesel refund claims submitted from May 2026 onwards.