The government is urging motorists to avoid panic buying as South Africa prepares for record fuel prices coming into effect at midnight.
Consumers have been advised to purchase fuel according to their normal needs and avoid stockpiling unnecessarily.
Government says a sudden surge in demand could place additional pressure on fuel stations and distribution networks, potentially resulting in localised shortages.
The price of 93 unleaded petrol will increase to R30.25 a litre, adding further pressure to households already dealing with rising living costs.
Higher fuel prices are also expected to increase operating costs for farmers, transport companies and other businesses, with the knock-on effects potentially filtering through to food prices and other goods.
Economist Dawie Roodt says the impact of the increases will be felt across the economy, with transport and agriculture likely to be among the first sectors affected.
He says South Africa’s heavy reliance on diesel for freight transport leaves businesses particularly vulnerable to rising fuel costs.
Agriculture is also expected to face increased expenses, which could ultimately affect consumers.
Roodt warns that the latest fuel shock could add further upward pressure to inflation at a time when interest rates remain relatively high.
He says the economy is not in a strong enough position to easily absorb another major external shock, making careful financial planning increasingly important for households.
Roodt has advised consumers to maintain a budget, plan their spending in advance and set aside money for unexpected expenses.
Calls for government to reduce fuel taxes or introduce subsidies are also being met with caution.
Roodt says the state has limited financial capacity and that reducing fuel taxes would require government to either increase other taxes, cut spending or borrow more money.
He says the latest increase highlights the importance of households managing their finances carefully as South Africans adjust to higher fuel costs.