The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources has repeatedly reassured the public that there is currently no immediate risk of fuel shortages in South Africa.
Image: Tumi Pakkies / Independent Newspapers
The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources has moved to reassure South Africans that fuel supply remains stable in the short term, despite rising global oil market pressures.
This comes in the wake of reports of several petrol stations running out of fuel. According to reports, petrol stations across the Western Cape, Gauteng, the Free State, the North West and the Northern Cape ran out of 50ppm diesel.
The ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have pushed international crude oil prices above $100 per barrel, creating uncertainty in global energy markets.
The war has also led to countries such as Japan, South Korea and Thailand introducing emergency measures, including the release of strategic oil reserves, fuel price caps and energy-saving steps such as reduced workweeks and limits on electricity use, as governments move to protect domestic supply amid global disruptions.
In a statement released to the media, the department said fuel shipments secured ahead of the escalation are already being delivered.
"Government is actively coordinating with industry stakeholders to secure both crude oil and refined petroleum products from a diversified range of sources, and a comprehensive plan is in place to manage potential supply risks.
"Fuel consignments scheduled for March and early April 2026 were secured prior to the recent escalation in global tensions. These deliveries have commenced and are expected to adequately sustain national supply over the coming weeks".
The government also raised concerns about the increase in international oil prices, which have surged above USD 100 per barrel.
"Crude oil prices have exceeded USD 100 per barrel, driven by supply disruptions and heightened uncertainty affecting critical global shipping routes.
"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 also urged transparency across the fuel value chain, particularly in relation to unregulated products such as jet fuel.
"Industry stakeholders are expected to ensure that pricing practices are fair, justifiable, and fully compliant with applicable competition and consumer protection laws".
"Government continues to engage closely with industry stakeholders to monitor supply levels, assess emerging risks, and coordinate timely and appropriate interventions where necessary".
mthobisi.nozulela@iol.co.za
IOL Business