South Africa Faces Fuel Shortages as Gulf Tensions Escalate
Gqeberha, South Africa – Fuel stations in Nelson Mandela Bay are experiencing daily shortages, with many running dry by 2pm, as rising tensions in the Gulf region begin to impact fuel supplies in South Africa. Petroleum companies are limiting fuel distribution, citing concerns over supply risks linked to the ongoing conflict.
The situation, which began earlier this month, has seen oil companies imposing surcharges on fuel prices – ranging from 5 cents per litre for petrol to as much as R10 per litre for paraffin. Diesel prices are also significantly affected, with surcharges reaching over R8 per litre in some areas.
Johan du Plessis, managing director of PE Fuels Group and owner of the Engen Truck Stop in Swartkops, described a rapid reduction in fuel allocations. “We would request a certain amount of fuel and receive much less,” he told TimesLive. He confirmed that most major oil companies are now rationing fuel, forcing retail stations to limit purchases per customer.
The South African government acknowledges the potential for price increases. Mineral and petroleum resources minister Gwede Mantashe stated this week that larger fuel price hikes are becoming “increasingly unavoidable” due to the international situation.
However, opposition parties are questioning whether the country’s legally mandated two-month fuel reserve is being maintained. James Lorimer, a spokesperson for the Democratic Alliance (DA), said Mantashe avoided direct answers on the matter. Wynand Boshoff, a Member of Parliament for the Freedom Front Plus (FF+), stated his party has received warning letters from fuel suppliers. “The minister says we have enough fuel. Where is it?” he asked.
Boshoff also warned that fuel shortages could exacerbate food insecurity in vulnerable communities, noting that South Africa relies on Sasol for only 30% of its fuel needs. Sasol maintains it continues to supply the Eastern Cape with approximately six million litres of fuel monthly and does not import from the Middle East.
As of today, reports on social media indicate at least 27 fuel stations across South Africa are already out of stock. The situation highlights South Africa’s vulnerability to global geopolitical events and raises concerns about the adequacy of its strategic fuel reserves.
