The South African National Taxi Council has called on government to urgently clarify looming fuel price increases and engage the taxi industry on measures to ease the growing financial burden on operators.
The council says reports of fuel shortages, restrictions on refuelling, and the limited availability of diesel are placing significant strain on taxi operators nationwide.
Fuel prices are expected to rise sharply, with petrol projected to increase by more than R5 per litre and diesel by nearly R10 per litre. SANTACO warned that the situation is already disrupting daily operations within the sector.
Spokesperson Mmatshikhidi Phala said the organisation is acting swiftly to prevent panic and stabilise the industry.
“The increases in diesel in particular are even more concerning because it appears fuel stations are overpricing it, thereby taking advantage of its lessened regulation in comparison to petrol,” Phala said.
She added that the council’s leadership is working urgently to protect both operators and commuters from the impact of rising fuel costs.