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- Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources says global events and shipping disruptions are raising the cost of imported petroleum products.
- The department asks people to avoid unnecessary stockpiling because unusually high demand can pressure stations and may cause local shortages.
Panic buying could lead to fuel shortages in some areas, the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources says. It is asking people to buy only what they normally need.
The department says unusually high demand can put pressure on fuel stations and distribution networks. It asks people to avoid unnecessary stockpiling.
Fuel prices are going up. The department says they are influenced by international petroleum product prices and the exchange rate between the rand and the US dollar. Global events and disruptions to shipping routes are making the petroleum products South Africa imports more expensive.
The department says it continues to monitor fuel availability, stocks, imports, refinery operations and logistics, together with industry.
The public should rely on verified information from the department, the Central Energy Fund and the Fuels Industry Association of South Africa.
Questions can be sent to [email protected]. The department’s website is www.dmpr.gov.za.