Amid Middle East war, SA govt says fuel supply remains stable

As tensions continue in the Middle East, the government said fuel supply remains stable in South Africa.

The announcement was made on Tuesday night, allaying mounting fears of possible shortages in the country.

Global oil trade and supply have suffered as a result of major disruptions, forcing countries worldwide to resort to oil reserves and refineries for supply.

In response to recent attacks, Iran targeted key United States (US) bases across the Middle East.

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This has had a knock-on effect on the Strait of Hormuz, where ships carrying refined petroleum to South Africa face major disruptions, leaving the republic facing possible fuel price shocks with potential spikes of between R5 and R8 per litre.

However, the Department of Mineral Resources said there’s no need to panic, citing contact with local oil companies, adding that there is no immediate risk.

The country currently has two operational oil refineries, Natref and Astron Energy, in addition to the Sasol Secunda coal-to-liquids plant, all of which rely on crude imports from West Africa.