DA to address fuel price crisis – WATCH
· The South African
The Democratic Alliance (DA) is set to make what it has described as an “important announcement” on rising fuel costs on Wednesday, 25 March at 11:00.
This comes amid growing concern over the impact on households and the economy.
Visit extonnews.click for more information.
In a statement shared on social media, the party said the briefing will focus on South Africa’s escalating fuel prices and the broader cost-of-living crisis.
Pressure builds ahead of announcement
The announcement comes as South Africans brace for steep fuel price hikes driven by global oil market instability, linked to escalating tensions in the Middle East.
While government and industry bodies maintain that national fuel supply remains stable, reports from parts of the Garden Route suggest diesel shortages and rationing at some service stations.
Concerns over fuel hoarding
Alan Winde has raised concerns about possible fuel hoarding in the Western Cape, saying authorities are investigating discrepancies between official supply assurances and on-the-ground reports.
Winde warned that some suppliers may be withholding fuel purchased at lower prices in anticipation of selling it later at higher rates, describing the practice as “unacceptable” and harmful to the economy.
Impact on agriculture
The shortages are already affecting sectors such as agriculture.
Farmers in areas like Waboomskraal near George report difficulties accessing diesel during a critical planting and harvesting period, raising concerns about disruptions to operations and potential knock-on effects on food production.
Higher fuel costs are also driving up input prices such as fertiliser, increasing the risk of reduced yields and rising food prices.
Sharp increases expected
Latest data points to significant under-recoveries, with fuel prices expected to rise sharply from 1 April:
- Petrol: increase of over R5 per litre
- Diesel: increase of more than R9 per litre
These increases are likely to add further strain to consumers already grappling with high living costs.
Live briefing
The DA’s announcement will be streamed live on its official platforms, with the party expected to outline its position and potential responses to the growing fuel crisis.
As pressure mounts, attention will be on whether the announcement addresses both rising prices and concerns over localised supply disruptions.