Fuel Prices Set for 12th Hike This Year as Oil Costs Surge

Where things stand

Drivers should brace for another significant jump at the pump, as the latest round of fuel price adjustments is scheduled for September 11th at midnight. This will be the 18th price revision of the year, and it is expected to add roughly 0.25 to 0.30 yuan per liter to the cost of gasoline and diesel.

This upcoming increase follows the previous adjustment, which already pushed prices up by more than 0.29 yuan per liter. With this latest move, fuel prices in 2026 will have risen a total of 12 times, compared to only five reductions so far. Over the first eight months of the year, cumulative increases have already exceeded 1.32 yuan per liter.

Why the surge continues

The primary driver behind this sustained upward pressure is the continued strength in international crude oil markets. The global benchmark saw another gain of more than 3.25% in overnight trading, which has further inflated the domestic price tracking mechanism. The current crude oil change rate now stands at 5.89%, translating to a projected increase of 330 yuan per ton.

Based on this calculation, the wholesale price adjustment will translate to a retail increase of between 0.25 yuan and 0.30 yuan per liter for consumers. With less than 48 hours remaining before the new prices take effect, the updated figures will be in place by September 12th.

Approaching the 9-yuan mark

The impact of this hike will be most noticeable for drivers of vehicles that use 95-octane gasoline. Following the last price increase, 95-octane fuel has already climbed to around 8.60 yuan per liter in most regions. After this latest adjustment of nearly 0.30 yuan per liter, the price is set to move dangerously close to the symbolic "9-yuan era" threshold.

It should be noted that all projected increases are based on institutional forecasts and calculations. The final adjustment margin will be confirmed by official announcements upon implementation.

Advice for motorists

To avoid long queues at service stations, drivers are encouraged to top up their tanks before the deadline. Filling up this evening could save a small amount as prices are set to rise significantly in the next two days.