Government has warned that motorists could face higher fuel prices from April as global oil prices continue to rise amid tensions in the Middle East.
The increase comes as the price of Brent Crude climbs due to ongoing conflict in the region, placing pressure on international energy markets.
The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy says while global price movements are a concern, the country’s fuel supply remains stable for now.
South Africa currently has two operational refineries, NatRef and Astron Energy, both of which rely heavily on imported crude oil, mainly sourced from West Africa.
However, the Astron Energy refinery is currently closed for scheduled maintenance.
Despite the temporary shutdown, the department says it has received assurances that fuel imports are sufficient to maintain adequate supply across the country.
Officials cautioned, however, that the continued rise in international oil prices is likely to be reflected in higher fuel costs at the pumps.
The department added that it remains hopeful that tensions in the Middle East will ease soon, which could help stabilise global oil markets and improve fuel price conditions.