In another financial blow to South African consumers, the Department of Minerals and Energy has confirmed a substantial hike in fuel prices for the month of March. This marks the second consecutive month that motorists and households will face increased costs at the pumps.

The escalating prices will see petrol (both grades) climb by a staggering R1.21 per litre, while diesel prices will soar between R1.06 and R1.19 per litre. Illuminating paraffin, a common household fuel, will witness an 85-cent increase at the retail level, and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) will surge by 41 cents per kilogram.

According to departmental spokesperson Robert Maake, the primary culprits behind this latest fuel price hike are the weakened rand against the U.S. dollar and higher global oil prices on average. However, the slate levy remains unchanged at 0 cents per litre.

Compounding the strain on consumers, Transnet’s decommissioning of the Kroonstad pipeline from December 2023 has disrupted fuel transportation across four district zones, adding further logistical challenges to the equation.

As South Africans brace for the impending price adjustments, which will take effect on Wednesday, concerns mount over the impact on household budgets and the cost of living. The persistent fuel price increases could potentially exacerbate inflationary pressures and strain already-stretched finances for many households and businesses reliant on transportation.