Brent crude’s surge above 109 dollars a barrel threatens fresh fuel price pressure for South Africa and a political headache for US President Donald Trump ahead of next month’s congressional elections.

The international benchmark jumped more than three percent on Friday as attacks on Gulf shipping and Russian refineries heightened supply concerns.

Rising energy costs could keep affordability at the centre of the American election campaign.

Attacks around the Strait of Hormuz and renewed Ukrainian strikes on Russian refineries are deepening concerns about oil and diesel supplies. For South Africa, sustained increases could push up petrol and diesel prices, although the rand’s exchange rate also influences the eventual adjustment.

Higher transport costs could add pressure to food prices.

In the United States, rising pump prices could undermine Trump’s affordability message and increase pressure on Republican candidates. With congressional elections on November third, fuel costs could sharpen voter frustration over the cost of living while giving Democrats an additional boost.

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