The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR) has assured residents that the country currently faces no immediate risk of fuel shortages, despite rising global oil prices and ongoing geopolitical tensions affecting international markets.
In a statement, the department said it remains in constant communication with oil companies operating in the country to ensure the stability and security of South Africa’s fuel supply.
The department added that developments in the Middle East are being closely monitored due to their potential impact on global oil markets and fuel prices. “While prolonged geopolitical tensions may exert pressure on international oil prices, the department wishes to assure the public that there is currently no immediate risk of fuel shortages in South Africa,” the statement said.
The department also confirmed that the Astron Energy refinery is currently undergoing a planned maintenance shutdown. However, the company has secured sufficient fuel imports as part of its operational planning to ensure supply requirements are met during the maintenance period.
Despite stable supply, the department warned that the continued rise in international crude oil prices is expected to result in higher fuel prices at the pump from April 2026. It said the under-recovery on fuel prices has been fluctuating since the onset of the conflict affecting global markets.
DMPR will continue monitoring the situation and will provide further updates before the official fuel price adjustments for April are announced.
The department added that oil companies importing refined petroleum products from countries affected by the conflict are exploring alternative supply sources to ensure uninterrupted fuel availability in the domestic market.
Officials remain optimistic that tensions will de-escalate in the near future, which could help stabilise global oil markets and improve fuel price conditions.
Compiled by Clement Matroos
