Motorists in Gauteng say they are frustrated and concerned as fuel prices are set to increase from tomorrow.

The price hike follows an announcement by Mineral Resources and Energy Minister Gwede Mantashe, who cited global oil supply disruptions linked to tensions between the United States and Iran, as well as a weaker rand.

The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources says that from 6 May 2026, petrol will increase by R3.27 per litre, diesel by R6.19, wholesale paraffin by R4.22, and LP Gas by up to R5.78 per kilogram.

Motorist Sipho Makhanya says, “As motorists, I feel like this escalating of fuel is actually coming to a head right now, because if you go back to last month, we had a challenge on this fuel increase, and right now we are facing the same problem. In my point of view, I actually think that the government has done nothing at all to actually support us. I think they’ve never come up with a strategic plan to think for the people of South Africa. So right now we urge, and we try to talk to the government about this issue, because a lot is coming to an end. I mean, like transport drivers, as you can see, taxis are parked, a lot of cars”.

Labour Federation Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) has warned that the increases could have a wider impact on the cost of living.

The COSATU has called on the government to extend the fuel levy relief to cushion workers from rising fuel prices. The union says the increases will place additional strain on workers who are already facing financial challenges.

COSATU National Spokesperson Zanele Sabela says, “Cosatu appeals to the government to maintain the fuel levy relief as it is the most cost-effective and impactful solution to protect workers, society, and the economy against this global crisis. Workers are already drowning, given that they are already spending about 40% of their earnings on transport. Cosatu has also been pained that no relief has been provided thus far for households that use paraffin. We believe more needs to be done as we fear that workers, society and the economy will not be able to cope”.

The federation says failure to extend relief measures could have wider economic impacts, affecting households and the broader economy.

COSATU has also questioned whether enough measures are in place to protect workers and low-income households from the impact of rising fuel prices.

Fearing the worst as fuel price hikes hit hard