South Africans are bracing for higher living costs as global tensions push fuel prices higher, with retailers warning of inevitable price increases.

The fuel price increases on April 1 were no joke: petrol prices increased by R3.06 per litre, while diesel rose by between R7.37 and R7.51 a litre, depending on the grade. This marks one of the steepest single-month fuel hikes on record. Petrol at the coast now costs R22.53 per litre, while diesel has climbed to R25.35 and will be higher inland.

Diesel price hikes tend to push up operational and transport costs throughout supply chains, placing additional strain on businesses and consumers. For households, this pressure typically translates into rising prices for basic necessities, especially food and household goods.

Consumers are being urged to prepare for further price pressures as the effects filter through to store shelves.

SPAR Gourmet manager Tyrone Anderson said price increases are unavoidable.

“We were notified by some of our suppliers a few weeks ago that they are going to implement a fuel levy due to uncertainty around fuel prices,” said Anderson.

According to the latest Household Affordability Index released by the Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice & Dignity Group (PMBEJD), food prices dipped slightly in March. However, the organisation cautioned that the decrease offers little relief for consumers, as escalating fuel costs and broader living expenses continue to erode household budgets.

The PMBEJD warned that without targeted government intervention, the affordability crisis is likely to worsen in the months ahead.

Food Lover’s Market Ballito co-owner John Goncalves echoed those concerns, pointing to South Africa’s dependence on diesel.

“I see issues coming; diesel drives our economy,” he said.

“If diesel goes up, fertilisers and feed increase; prices go up, and we follow market prices – increases are going to happen, we are just not sure when.”