By Nkhensani Chauke
South Africans will start the new year with another fuel price increase, but slight relief in illuminating paraffin.
This will be the third consecutive adjustment.
SA Petroleum Retailers Association (Sapra) chairman Henry van der Merwe said the fuel price increases would place additional strain on motorists.
However, he was happy that the reduction in illuminating paraffin prices would offer slight relief for households relying on it for heating and lighting.
From Wednesday petrol 93 ULP & LRP will increase by 19 cents and petrol 95 ULP & LRP by 12 cents a litre.
Diesel will go up between 7.50 cents and 10.50 cents per litre, while illuminating paraffin will decrease by 9.50 cents.
Van der Merwe expressed concern on Monday over the cumulative impact of the consecutive increases, which were expected to drive up transport costs, which may in turn lead to higher prices for goods and services.
“This adjustment is particularly challenging for businesses and consumers alike as we start a new year when consumer budgets are traditionally stretched after the festive period.
“We urge all South Africans to adapt their fuel usage wherever possible and explore ways to mitigate the effects of rising costs. Holidaymakers travelling home will also need to factor in the extra increases,” he said in a statement.
Van der Merwe stressed the importance of supporting small businesses in the petroleum retail sector during this challenging period.
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