South Africa's Fuels Industry Association states that fuel supplies are stable but tight, especially for diesel, ahead of price increases on 1 April 2026. President Cyril Ramaphosa said he and Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana are concerned about the situation. Taxi operators and consumers warn of impacts from hikes exceeding R5 per litre for petrol and nearly R10 for diesel.
The Fuels Industry Association of South Africa announced on Saturday that the country's fuel supply is stable with adequate availability of major petroleum products. However, supply levels are tight, particularly for diesel ahead of the 1 April price adjustment. Above-normal demand and limited road tanker availability have caused delivery delays and intermittent stock-outs in several regions, though no widespread disruptions are expected during the Cape Town refinery shutdown planned for mid-April, with imports arranged.
President Cyril Ramaphosa, addressing the ANC Limpopo elective conference on Sunday, said he and Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana were losing sleep over the fuel situation. A ministerial task team has been appointed to investigate interventions to reduce impacts on consumers and the economy.
Automobile Association CEO Bobby Ramagwede suggested ramping up refining of strategic oil reserves, bought back after a 2016 sale at about $29 per barrel, to shield consumers from global prices around $100 per barrel. He called for suspending taxes including the fuel levy, Road Accident Fund levy and carbon tax to mitigate the 'violent price shock', estimating petrol component rises from R8-9 to R13-14 per litre.
Taxi operators in Polokwane, Limpopo, such as Mafotha Mailula and Mapula Monyepabe from Mankweng Taxi Association, said they face huge problems and plan minimal fare increases of R1 or R2, pleading for government intervention. Putco and Golden Arrow bus companies expressed concerns over diesel costs but aim to avoid immediate passenger fare hikes. DA finance spokesperson Dr Mark Burke urged halving fuel levies for R3.17 per litre petrol relief, noting actions by countries like Namibia and Australia.
Consumers reported rising commute costs, potential property market slowdowns and strained personal plans due to higher fuel and living expenses.
