SA assures stable fuel supply amid Middle East tensions

Government has reassured South Africans that the country’s fuel supply remains stable, despite the escalating conflict in the Middle East.

The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources says fuel shipments for March and early April were secured in advance and are already being delivered.

However, global oil prices have risen above 100 dollars per barrel and are expected to place upward pressure on domestic fuel costs.

“As a net importer of petroleum products, South Africa remains inherently exposed to these external dynamics. Sustained increases in international oil prices, coupled with exchange rate fluctuations, are expected to translate into higher domestic fuel prices in the months ahead,” the department said in a statement.

Authorities say they are closely monitoring the situation while strengthening long-term energy security measures.

“These interventions include the diversification of fuel import sources, the enhancement of strategic storage capacity, and the acceleration of key infrastructure investments. South Africa will continue to honour its regional supply obligations, while ensuring that the security of domestic fuel supply remains paramount.”

Government says it continues to engage closely with industry stakeholders to monitor supply levels and assess emerging risks.

Meanwhile, Economist Dawie Roodt, has warned that global pressures including ongoing tensions in the Middle East could still drive oil prices up and weaken the rand.

Roodt says while South Africa’s Consumer Price Inflation eased from 3.5% to 3% in February, it will likely increase due to global developments.

“Unfortunately, what happened subsequently is we still have this war in the Middle East,  which will push up crude prices and weaken the South African currency, and that will lead to future inflationary pressures. So good news, but that’s water under the bridge.”

The escalating conflict in the Middle East involving the United States, Israel and Iran is raising alarm across the globe.

🚨🇬🇧 Meanwhile across the UK

The petrol panic buying has begun.

After this Bris next priority will be stocking up on toilet roll. pic.twitter.com/xLzuAmomQF

— Concerned Citizen (@BGatesIsaPyscho) March 3, 2026

⛽️💰 full tank, empty wallet

– crude oil prices are up nearly 80% this year
– the rand is back at R16.83
– new increases to RAF & general fuel levies

expect heavy financial damage with the next rounds of petrol & diesel price hikes 💔💔 pic.twitter.com/BL1UajHu0g

— Koshiek Karan (@iamkoshiek) March 9, 2026

Due to war in the Middle East, petrol and diesel prices are set to increase this Wednesday in South Africa.

South Africa import 85% of its cruel oil🛢️from Middle East Region.

Fuel price hike will lead to food and transport prices increase in the country.

By the way South… pic.twitter.com/HxXh8H4LKf

— Dr MuVenda (@Ndi_Muvenda_) March 2, 2026