No current fuel shortage but long-term solutions sought, says government

Government 'actively coordinating with industry stakeholders to secure crude oil and refined petroleum products from diversified range of sources'

March 29, 2026

Gugu Myeni 1 minute read

No imminent fuel shortage, says government

THE government last week reassured motorists that fuel deliveries have started and are expected to sustain the national supply adequately over the coming weeks.

The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR) said consignments for March and early April were secured before the recent global tensions.

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It also reaffirmed that it 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’.

There are, however, growing concerns that recent developments in international oil markets have already put pressure on fuel prices.

“Crude oil prices have exceeded $100 per barrel, driven by supply disruptions and heightened uncertainty affecting critical global shipping routes,” said the department.

“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.”

It noted government is looking at ways to strengthen long-term energy security.

“These interventions include the diversification of fuel import sources, the enhancement of strategic storage capacity, and the acceleration of key infrastructure investments.”

AfriForum said it has been increasingly receiving reports that some petrol stations are ‘without certain types of fuel, especially diesel, or have a limited supply’.

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Although this is not yet a national crisis, fuel shortages can still be an inconvenience and pose safety risks for road users.

“Motorists should not wait until their cars are almost out of fuel before they start looking for a petrol station,” said AfriForum chief spokesperson for community safety, Jacques Broodryk.

“At a time when there is great uncertainty about the supply of fuel, it’s wise to always maintain a reasonable safety margin.”

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