Pretoria – The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR) says there is currently no immediate risk of fuel shortages in South Africa despite rising global oil prices linked to tensions in the Middle East.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the department said it was closely monitoring developments in global oil markets while maintaining constant communication with oil companies operating in the country.
“The Department remains in continuous contact with oil companies operating in the country to ensure the stability and security of fuel supply, while closely monitoring developments in the Middle East and their potential impact on global oil markets and fuel prices,” the department said.
While geopolitical tensions could place pressure on international oil prices, the department sought to reassure the public about local supply.
“While prolonged geopolitical tensions may exert pressure on international oil prices, the Department wishes to assure the public that there is currently no immediate risk of fuel shortages in South Africa,” it said.
Planned maintenance shutdown
South Africa currently operates two crude oil refineries – NATREF and Astron Energy – along with the Sasol Secunda coal-to-liquids plant, which the department said continues to play a key role in domestic fuel production.
“These facilities rely on crude oil imports sourced primarily from West Africa and increasingly from other countries across the African continent,” the department said.
The Astron Energy refinery is currently undergoing a planned maintenance shutdown, but the department said supply has been secured to avoid disruptions.
“The Astron Energy refinery is currently undergoing a planned maintenance shutdown. However, as part of standard operational planning, the company has secured sufficient fuel imports to cover supply requirements during this maintenance period,” it said.
However, motorists are likely to feel the impact of rising crude oil prices at the pumps in the coming months.
“Unfortunately, the continued rise in international crude oil prices is expected to result in higher fuel prices at the pump from April 2026,” the department said.
Optimistic
It added that the under-recovery on fuel prices has been fluctuating since the start of the conflict and authorities will continue to assess the situation.
“The Department will continue to monitor the situation closely. Further updates will be provided in due course ahead of the official April fuel price adjustments,” it said.
Oil companies that import refined petroleum products from countries affected by the conflict are also seeking alternative sources.
“Oil companies that currently import refined petroleum products from countries affected by the conflict are actively exploring alternative supply sources to ensure uninterrupted fuel availability in the domestic market,” the department said.
The department added that it remains hopeful that geopolitical tensions will ease.
“The Department remains optimistic that the tensions will de-escalate in the near future, which would help stabilise global oil markets and contribute to improved fuel price conditions,” it said.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
