Mantashe vows tougher action against fuel stations raising prices before official date

Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister, Gwede Mantashe, has vowed to crack the whip on fuel operators who increase prices ahead of the official fuel price adjustments.

Mantashe made the remarks at the inaugural Fuels Industry Association of South Africa conference in Johannesburg.

The minister says authorities are intensifying fuel testing and monitoring programmes to identify suppliers selling contaminated or tampered fuel.

He singled out the illegal blending of diesel with paraffin as one of the persistent challenges facing the industry.

Mantashe says these efforts are aimed at protecting consumers, ensuring fuel quality standards are upheld and curb billions of rands in losses linked to fuel fraud.

“This criminal activity undermines the rule of law, distorts markets, damages equipment, compromises consumer confidence, and poses significant risks to our economy and national security. Compliance with regulatory requirements is not optional. It is fundamental to maintaining public trust and ensuring a level playing field for all participants.

“Government continues to work closely with law enforcement agencies to combat this illicit trade. However, we cannot succeed alone. Industry cooperation remains essential in identifying offenders and strengthening compliance throughout the value chain,” he added.

Mantashe also warned that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East served as a reminder that energy security cannot be taken for granted.

“Events occurring thousands of kilometres away continue to affect fuel prices, supply chains, investment decisions, and economic stability across the globe. South Africa has not been immune to these developments.”

WATCH 🎥 | Keynote Address by Minister Gwede Mantashe at the Fuels Industry Association of South Africa Annual Imbizo #GovZAUpdates #RSAAtWork #FuelsImbizo pic.twitter.com/ic8NaDw8KX

— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) June 11, 2026