Cape Town – South African motorists are bracing for a sharp fuel price increase expected on 1 April, with diesel projected to exceed R10 per litre and petrol rising by more than R5 per litre — historic highs driven by global oil price pressures linked to geopolitical tensions.
The Fuel Industry Association of South Africa says supply remains stable, but panic buying and overwhelming demand ahead of the hike are already putting pressure on logistics and forecourts.
Reports show that many service stations are running dry, with hundreds of forecourts having no diesel and some without petrol as motorists rush to fill up before the price jump.
Some stations are also limiting how much fuel customers can buy to cope with the surge in demand.
Industry leaders warn this could disrupt normal operations and lead to long queues, while government officials urge calm and confirm that fuel imports continue.
The situation reflects broader energy market volatility as global conflicts push oil prices higher, adding strain to consumers and transport sectors already facing rising costs.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
