By: Ziliungile Mkhize
Consumer inflation increased to 4.0% in April, up from 3.1% in March, mainly driven by sharp increases in fuel prices.
According to Statistics South Africa (Stats SA), this marks the highest inflation level recorded since August 2024 and signals growing pressure on household spending.
Fuel costs surged by 18.2% month-on-month, the steepest increase recorded in 18 years. Petrol prices rose by 15.2%, while diesel prices climbed by a significant 35.4%.
The increase in fuel prices also pushed up transport costs, with consumers paying more for public transport and air travel during the month under review.
Stats SA Chief Director for Price Statistics, Patrick Kelly, said fuel continues to be the main contributor to rising inflationary pressures across the economy.
Economists warn that sustained increases in fuel and transport costs could place additional strain on consumers already grappling with high living expenses and weak economic growth.
