10/03/2026
Garage owners across South Africa are sounding the alarm petrol and diesel shortages could hit hard if the Middle East mess especially the US-Israel-Iran conflict doesn't cool off fast. Ships are piling up outside the Strait of Hormuz, where a fifth of the world's oil normally flows, and Iran's threats have everyone on edge. We're already seeing signs Engen started rationing fuel pickups in places like Gqeberha and Durban. South Africa relies heavily on imported refined fuel from the Gulf, and our own refineries can't crank up enough to cover the gap. No full-blown queues yet, but retailers say it's coming if things drag on.
The real kicker? Massive price jumps are locked in for April think R3+ extra per litre on petrol and up to R5 or more on diesel, thanks to oil spiking past $100 a barrel, a weakening rand, and incoming fuel tax hikes. That hits everything: groceries get pricier, transport costs soar, businesses pass it on. Motorists are about to feel the squeeze like never before fill up smart while you can, because this one's not blowing over quick.
