SA braces for tough times as fuel price hikes loom

Some South Africans say they are bracing for tough times as looming fuel price hikes threaten to squeeze already stretched household budgets.

This comes as the country faces sharp increases in petrol and diesel prices, with potentially serious implications for the broader economy, including knock-on effect on food prices and transport costs.

Data from the Central Energy Fund (CEF) points to petrol price increases of between R5.31 for 93 unleaded and R5.82 for 95 unleaded from the 1 April.

Diesel is expected to rise even more sharply, by between R10.13 and R10.27.

The sharp rise in fuel prices is largely being driven by escalating tensions in the Middle East, which have pushed up global oil prices and placed additional pressure on the rand.

Speaking to Ynews, some Tshwane residents say the expected hikes are deeply concerning, warning that rising fuel costs could push up food prices and leave many households struggling.

Tariro Zulu, who relies on public transport and supports three children, fears the increases could worsen poverty levels.

“People are gonna die from hunger. This thing doesn’t sit well with us at all. We are all going to feel the pain. Some people are going to end up doing things they are not supposed to do because of these price hikes so it’s better we leave things as they are and let people live as they are now,” Zulu said.

The pressure is compounded by tax increases announced in the 2026 Budget, which will add a further 21 cents per litre through adjustments to the General Fuel Levy, Carbon Levy and Road Accident Fund Levy.

Motorists could soon pay around R25.50 per litre for 95 unleaded at the coast and R26.33 inland, while 93 unleaded is expected to cost about R25.71.

Diesel prices are projected to reach R28.32 at the coast and R29.08 in Gauteng.

Residents have called on President Cyril Ramaphosa to intervene, expressing frustration over what they describe as a lack of decisive leadership.

One resident says the increases are excessive and difficult to absorb.

Others warn the impact will be felt most by workers who rely on daily transport, as they juggle rising commuting costs with household responsibilities.

Some drivers say they are already feeling the pressure, as stricter fuel monitoring in company vehicles could result in higher deductions from their salaries.

This is as some workers employed as drivers say they must closely monitor fuel usage in company vehicles or risk reduced pay.

One driver told YNews that although his company provides fuel for daily trips between Mpumalanga and Tshwane, strict controls are in place — with financial consequences if limits are exceeded.

Meanwhile, government says it is exploring measures to cushion the impact.

President Ramaphosa has tasked Finance Minister, Enoch Godongwana, and other cabinet members with urgently developing interventions to ease the pressure on consumers and the broader economy.

The Mineral Resources and Energy Department is expected to release a statement on Tuesday, 31 March, addressing concerns around the issue.

Government firmly reiterates that South Africa’s fuel supply remains stable in the immediate term, and there is no basis for panic buying.#GovZAUpdates @DMPR_ZA pic.twitter.com/L05jB8Bu5H

— GCIS Media Liaison (@GCISMedia) March 26, 2026

Written by: Odirile Rabalao