UASA Media Release: 22 July 2026
Image Source: Stats SA.
Statement by Abigail Moyo, spokesperson of the trade union UASA:
UASA notes with concern the latest Consumer Price Inflation (CPI) figures shock released by Stats SA, which show that annual inflation increased to 5% in June from 4.5% in May.
This recorded CPI is the highest since June 2024, when CPI was 5.1%. The CPI increased by 0,7% month-on-month in June 2026.
Among all the inflation measures, only food inflation recorded a decrease, while high costs in fuel and electricity mainly drove the surge in the inflation rate. Average fuel prices increased by more than 30%, while electricity tariffs climbed by nearly 10%.
The hefty increase in fuel pushed transport inflation up, as passenger transport costs rose, resulting in a greater financial burden for already stretched household budgets.
For UASA, the main concern is the timing of this substantial inflation shock, as these figures emerged just a day before the South African Reserve Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee is scheduled to announce its interest rate decision.
With inflation remaining higher than expected and the ongoing instability in the Middle East, there is a possibility of a rate increase.
UASA is mostly concerned that a rise in the repo rate will add to the existing pressure on workers with home loans, vehicle finance, and other debts.
UASA calls on the government and relevant stakeholders to urgently address the underlying cost pressures driving inflation, particularly fuel and electricity prices. Consumers and workers continue to face high living costs that show no signs of easing.
UASA encourages its members to stay strong in the face of these challenges, especially parents who commute daily and those with ongoing back-to-school expenses.
For further enquiries or to set up a personal interview, contact Abigail Moyo at 065 170 0162.