Illuminating Paraffin Price
Illuminating Paraffin (IP) is the regulated household fuel used for cooking, lighting and heating in homes without grid electricity. Prices are set monthly by the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE).
Current Prices — May 2026
Effective from 2026-05-07. Last change: decreased by R0.25 per R/litre.
| Product | Price (R/litre) |
|---|---|
| Illuminating Paraffin — Wholesale (R/litre) | R15.20 |
| Illuminating Paraffin — Retail Max (R/litre) | R19.80 |
Price History — Last 24 Months
Hover or tap any point to see the price in that month. Values come from the official Department of Mineral Resources and Energy monthly media statements.
Today's International Drivers
Rule of thumb: every $1/barrel Brent move ≈ 10c/litre BFP change; every 10c USD/ZAR move ≈ 14c/litre. Read more on the live Brent crude page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is paraffin VAT-free in South Africa?
Yes. Illuminating paraffin is zero-rated for VAT as a household-essential fuel, in recognition of its widespread use in low-income and off-grid households.
How is the paraffin price set?
The DMRE publishes a wholesale paraffin price and a maximum retail price each month. Retailers may sell at or below the maximum.
What is the difference between paraffin and kerosene?
They are the same product — "kerosene" is the international name and "paraffin" is the term used in South Africa (and most Commonwealth countries). Aviation jet fuel is a closely related but more refined grade.
When does the paraffin price change?
Monthly, on the first Wednesday. Next adjustment: Wednesday, 3 June 2026.