Despite the relief, some South Africans warned that the temporary measure does not address deeper structural challenges facing the country’s energy sector….reports Asian Lite News
The government of South Africa has received a cautiously positive response after extending temporary fuel levy relief measures aimed at easing pressure on households and businesses struggling with rising living costs.
Earlier this week, the National Treasury and the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources announced that the temporary reduction of three rand per litre on the general fuel levy for petrol would remain in effect until the end of June.
The relief measure, first introduced in March in response to rising global oil prices linked to tensions in the Middle East, has been welcomed by many motorists and small business owners across the country.
In Johannesburg, ride hailing driver Bhambatha Nkqayi said fuel costs remained one of his largest monthly expenses and that the extension would help him continue operating his business.
“This relief doesn’t solve everything, but it helps me keep my business running and still earn an income,” he said.
Lerato Mokoena, a retail employee from Soweto who travels long distances to work each day, said higher fuel prices often lead to immediate increases in taxi fares.
“If this prevents another increase, even for a few weeks, it makes a difference for people like us,” she said.
Small business owners also welcomed the decision. Xolani Bheshunga, who operates a catering business in Randburg, said fuel remained a major operational cost because of daily deliveries.
“This gives us breathing space and helps us avoid passing extra costs on to customers,” he said.
Economist Raymond Parsons from the North West University Business School described the extension as a necessary response to continuing global energy price volatility and growing financial strain on consumers.
He said the decision was supported by stronger than expected tax revenues and available fiscal space within the government budget.
Despite the relief, some South Africans warned that the temporary measure does not address deeper structural challenges facing the country’s energy sector.
Simnikiwe Kanyayi, a student at the University of Johannesburg, said the extension would only provide short term support.
“It cushions consumers in the short term, especially during global shocks. But South Africa still needs long term solutions to reduce its dependence on international oil prices,” Kanyayi said, calling for greater investment in alternative energy and stronger domestic supply chains.
Business owners dependent on transport services also voiced concerns over uncertainty once the relief programme ends.
Aisha Patel, who runs a delivery business in Alberton, said fluctuating fuel costs made it difficult to plan pricing strategies.
“We appreciate the extension, but once it ends, we could face another sudden spike. That makes it hard to set prices,” she said.
