Despite the start-of-the-year fuel price dip, ongoing conflict in the Middle East will see prices surge at the petrol pumps in June.

According to early reports, petrol could increase by as much as R2.20 per litre next month, while diesel users may face increases of more than R3 per litre.

International reports suggest that oil prices surged again this week after negotiations aimed at easing tensions and reopening the Strait of Hormuz appeared to stall.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes, and uncertainty around access to the waterway has fuelled fears of supply disruptions.

For South Africa, which relies heavily on imported crude oil, this global instability quickly translates into higher fuel costs locally.

Temporary fuel levy relief still in place

The government previously introduced temporary relief measures to soften the blow of rising fuel prices.

In April, National Treasury announced a temporary R3 per litre reduction in the General Fuel Levy, which has since been extended until 2 June.

However, uncertainty remains over what will happen once the relief expires, and whether motorists could face even steeper increases later in the year.

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