Fuel prices are set to rise sharply from midnight, with significant increases across petrol, diesel and illuminating paraffin expected to ripple through KwaZulu-Natal’s economy.
The retail price of all grades of petrol will climb by R3.27 per litre, while diesel is set to surge by R5.27 per litre. Illuminating paraffin will also increase by R4.22 per litre, adding further pressure on households and businesses alike.
The Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry has warned that the hike could have far-reaching consequences for the province, particularly given its reliance on logistics and transport-driven activity.
KZN Logistics Sector Faces Economic Strain From Fuel Price Increase
Chamber CEO Palesa Philli says the increase is likely to place heavy strain on businesses and could contribute to rising unemployment in the region.
“Being a logistics hub of the country, there is a lot of manufacturing that is taking place across multiple sectors. There are a lot of importers and exporters that heavily rely on trucks because our rail infrastructure is not operational yet.
“This is going to be absolutely devastating, not only just to businesses but to consumers, because all these prices are going to now be taken down to the consumers to absorb. We believe that the government needs to talk with business.
“We need to come up with a more sustainable long-term solution about how we are going to prevent the possible job losses that are going to be coming into the city and the province.”
KwaZulu-Natal’s dependence on road freight, due to underperforming rail infrastructure, means increased fuel costs are expected to filter quickly through supply chains, affecting both production and retail pricing.
Durban Fuel Stations See Panic Buying Ahead Of Price Hike
In the lead-up to the increase, panic buying has been reported in parts of Durban, with motorists forming long queues at petrol stations amid concerns about possible supply restrictions.
Yugen Maistry, general manager of a fuel station in Sherwood, says demand has surged unexpectedly.
“We’ve been busy, unusually busy. Generally, in the morning, and especially this time in the day, we are not busy, but from this morning, all our bays were full, but we have planned for it. So, we have extra staff. Also, a lot of garages are restricting fuel. That’s the biggest fear. I mean this morning I met customers that asked if I’m restricting because they have been to other sites that were restricting.”
The rush reflects growing anxiety among consumers trying to avoid higher costs or potential shortages.
Motorists Feel Financial Pressure As Fuel Costs Climb
Motorists have also voiced frustration, saying the rising cost of fuel is becoming increasingly difficult to manage.
“To fill my vehicle is R2,800, with the new price it will be about R3000. I think it’s ridiculous,” says one motorist.
Another says, “It’s quite bad, especially when it comes to the financial issues that we are facing currently. From what we are earning as employees in South Africa, it’s going to be heavy on our pockets.”
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“The fuel price is ridiculously high. With the next increase, it’s making living a bit stiffer. Like I’m filling R300 now, and I’ll come back in two days to fill another R300. It’s steep. Life is getting tougher and tougher,” adds another motorist.
With transport costs influencing the price of goods and services, the latest hike is expected to add to the broader cost-of-living pressures already facing South African households.
