UASA Media Release: 4 May 2026
Statement by Abigail Moyo, spokesperson of the trade union UASA:
UASA notes with deep concern the latest fuel price increase announced by the Department of Petroleum and Mineral Resources. This is a massive financial blow to already strained South African consumers.
Sadly, April saw a continuation of the United States’ war in Iran, which drove massive fluctuations in the global oil price, pushing oil prices to above $100 a barrel.
This situation once again highlights the extent to which international developments can negatively affect domestic economic conditions, particularly affecting the disadvantaged.
From midnight, on Tuesday consumers will face steep increases across all fuel categories. Both grades of petrol will retail at R26.52/l and R26.63/l, respectively. Diesel prices will rise to R32.09/l and R32.30/l, while illuminating paraffin will increase to R28.43/l. LPGas will now cost R41.12/kg.
These increases will have far-reaching consequences for the cost of living. Rising fuel prices inevitably lead to higher transportation and production costs, which businesses often pass on to consumers through increased prices for goods and services. This creates a persistent financial burden that households will take considerable time to recover from.
UASA remains concerned about the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and the dire impact it has on ordinary South Africans. We call on all stakeholders, policymakers, and employers to work collaboratively to identify practical interventions to alleviate the financial pressure on citizens.
Employers, where feasible, are encouraged to consider flexible work arrangements, including remote work options, to assist employees in managing escalating transport costs, particularly for working parents with school children who also depend on transport.
UASA calls on the government to be seriously considerate of measures that protect workers and support sustainable economic relief during this period of heightened financial strain.
For further enquiries or to set up a personal interview, contact Abigail Moyo at 065 170 0162.