Statement by Abigail Moyo, spokesperson of the trade union UASA:
The gradual consecutive decrease in fuel prices, particularly in petrol, is a welcome relief for consumers facing an affordability crisis due to the municipal tariff hikes that took effect 1 July. Living costs have become a nightmare for South Africans as inflation remains high and disposable income fails to match household expenses.
According to the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (previously the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy), petrol 93 ULP will drop by R1.05/l and 95 ULP by 99c/l. Diesel (0.05% sulphur) will decrease by 30c/l and (0.005% sulphur) by 24c/l respectively. Illuminating paraffin price will drop by 18c/l and LP Gas by 22c/kg.
While the decrease is welcome, the average South African still struggles to fill their tank or afford public transport. The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources should review the fuel pricing structure to provide relief for workers.
Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe must take note that most South Africans merely survive while trying to make it through the month and consider the basic needs of consumers. UASA urges Mantashe to push for a pricing structure review to help make fuel prices affordable again.
UASA welcomes the relief the lower petrol price will bring to motorists and commuters. We trust that the knock-on effect will stem inflation and result in lower prices in public transport and lower costs in the food, agricultural and manufacturing sectors.
