South Africans react as fuel prices surge despite tax relief

By Africanews with AP

Motorists in South Africa are voicing frustration after a sharp rise in fuel prices, even as the government introduced a temporary tax cut to ease the burden.

Authorities announced a reduction of the general fuel levy by three rand per litre, a measure aimed at cushioning the impact of soaring global oil prices linked to the Iran war. However, the relief has done little to offset one of the steepest pump price increases on record.

In Johannesburg, drivers say the rising cost of fuel is hitting hard.

Kagiso Nyokolodi, Motorist: “Furious, I’m angry, I’m out of words, I have ran out of words, no this is not good.”

Others acknowledged the government’s effort but said it falls short of what is needed.

Armand Pretorius, Motorist: “It’s very bad man, but at least the government has helped us with three rands (R3.00) that’s great, but it’s still very expensive.”

For many, the rising cost of fuel is part of a broader increase in the cost of living, affecting households across the country.

Innah Venter, Motorist: “It’s very hard on everybody, salary wise, pensioners wise, buying, everything is going up.”

Economists warn that higher fuel prices could ripple through the economy, pushing up transport and food costs, and placing additional strain on already stretched consumers.