It is the second fuel price increase in just a matter of weeks, a rapid succession of hikes that is once again tightening pressure on South Africa’s already strained transport economy.
The latest adjustments have pushed fuel costs sharply higher across the board, with petrol now retailing at R26.52/l and R26.63/l, while diesel has climbed to R32.09/l and R32.30/l.
Illuminating paraffin has risen to R28.43/l, and LPGas now stands at R41.12/kg, increases that are quickly filtering beyond the pump into transport fares, logistics costs, and household budgets.
In the taxi industry, the pressure has quickly translated into fare hikes. The South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) says commuters are now paying more, with local trips increasing by between R2 and R6, while long-distance routes are rising by between R10 and R30 depending on operational pressures.
SANTACO spokesperson Rebecca Phala told the Saturday Star that the increases were unavoidable as operators battle rising input costs across the board.
“These adjustments have not been undertaken lightly,” Phala said. “The taxi industry continues to face significant and rising operational costs, including fuel, maintenance, insurance, and finance obligations.”
SANTACO also warns that broader economic behaviour is beginning to shift, including growing calls for remote working as households try to reduce transport spending, a trend it says could reduce daily passenger volumes and weaken industry sustainability.
But beyond the numbers, there is growing concern about what these increases are doing to daily life.
Commuters say the impact is immediate and personal.
Nkosana Mazibuko from Alexandra says he already spends about R1,600 a month on transport, using two taxis daily to get to work.
“The cost of transport is so expensive, and this means I have to cut down on other essential expenses like groceries,” he said. “This is putting a strain on me.”
Mazibuko says even small increases now feel overwhelming.
“It feels like I’m between a rock and a hard place because when everything increases at the same time, it puts strain on my wallet and the salary stays the same.”
For taxi operators, the pressure is just as severe, but from the other side of the steering wheel. Taxi owner Mr Ngesi from Botshabelo says rising diesel costs are threatening the survival of his business.
“We are really struggling. I have two diesel buses,, and fuel is just crippling my business,” he said, adding that he spends around R1,200 a day on fuel.
He says operators are forced to absorb costs without relief from fare structures.
“Everything is expensive: parts, association fees, and general upkeep. You end up neglecting some things because diesel is crippling us,” he said. “This business is my livelihood. If I’m not making money, my whole life stops.”
Economists and industry leaders say the pressure is no longer isolated to transport.
The Road Freight Association adds that the ripple effect is already reaching logistics and prices on store shelves, with CEO Gavin Kelly cautioning that some businesses may not survive the pressure of a R5.27 per litre diesel hike.
“For some businesses, difficult decisions around job cuts, downsizing or even closure may become unavoidable,” he said.
Independent economist John Loos warns that prolonged global oil disruptions could push South Africa into a more difficult economic phase.
“Heading into the third month of conflict… slowing economic growth and rising interest rates appear increasingly likely,” Loos said, warning of tighter household spending ahead.
Trade union UASA has warned that rising fuel prices could deepen the cost-of-living crisis facing many South Africans, as businesses pass increased transport and production costs on to consumers.
UASA spokesperson Abigail Moyo said households are likely to feel the effects beyond the fuel pump, with prices of goods and services expected to rise further.
“We remain concerned about the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and the dire impact it has on ordinary South Africans,” said Moyo.
She also urged employers to consider flexible or remote working arrangements where possible, saying this could help workers manage growing transport expenses, especially working parents who also face school transport costs.
Mobalyz, a South African company that provides vehicle finance and support solutions for the taxi industry, has also raised concerns about the growing pressure fuel costs are placing on operators.
CEO Sean Doherty said rising fuel prices are affecting the sustainability of many transport businesses and placing strain on operators trying to remain on the road.
“Our customers are at the heart of South Africa’s mobility ecosystem. When fuel costs rise, it places real pressure on their ability to operate sustainably,” said Doherty.
The company says fuel support for qualifying operators will be rolled out through its rewards programme from May 2026, as part of efforts aimed at easing ongoing financial pressures in the sector
Saturday Star