By: Bright Ntuli
The South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) says reports of fuel shortages, limits on refuelling volumes, and rising diesel prices are already placing significant strain on taxi associations and operators across the country.
The industry, which plays a vital role in South Africa’s public transport system, is warning that continued pressure on fuel supply and pricing could disrupt daily operations and affect millions of commuters who rely on minibus taxis.
Fuel prices are expected to increase tomorrow as a result of the ongoing war in the Middle East, which has contributed to global oil price volatility. This is likely to further intensify financial pressures on transport operators, many of whom are still recovering from the economic impact of recent years.
SANTACO spokesperson Rebecca Phala says that, given the current urgency and prevailing economic conditions, taxi fare increases have become necessary for associations to sustain their operations.
She adds that operators are being forced to balance rising input costs with the need to remain affordable to commuters, many of whom are already facing financial hardship.
Industry stakeholders have warned that without intervention or relief measures, the combined impact of fuel constraints and higher prices could have broader implications for the country’s transport network and the cost of living.
