Civil society groups, political parties, and trade unions have welcomed government’s decision to extend fuel levy relief measures aimed at easing pressure on households and the economy.
The extension includes a R3 per litre fuel levy cut on petrol, now extended until 2 June 2026, while diesel relief has been increased to R3.93 per litre for May—effectively reducing the diesel levy to zero for the month.
The announcement, made by the National Treasury and the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources on Tuesday, confirms that the temporary relief measures—originally due to expire in early May—will now continue into June. Officials say the move is intended to curb inflation and limit the negative impact of rising fuel prices on economic growth.
The Motor Industry Staff Association (MISA) has welcomed the decision, describing it as a much-needed intervention for workers already under financial pressure due to escalating fuel costs.
However, the association has raised concerns that millions of South Africans who depend on illuminating paraffin remain excluded from the relief package, despite an expected price increase of more than R5 per litre in May.
According to MISA, this could place additional strain on vulnerable households as winter approaches.
MISA spokesperson Phakamile Hlubi-Majola said the situation risks deepening inequality, warning that families relying on paraffin for cooking, heating, and lighting are being left behind.
The association has called on government to urgently extend relief to paraffin users.
MISA has also welcomed progress in the review of the fuel pricing mechanism but insists the process must be transparent and inclusive, with input from workers, communities, and civil society.
In addition, the union has urged the private sector to avoid job cuts, calling for a moratorium on retrenchments despite rising fuel costs.
Meanwhile, the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources has confirmed it has begun reviewing the fuel pricing formula, which will shape how prices are regulated in future. The department also noted adjustments under the Self-Adjusting Slate mechanism for the month of May.
