Farmers report diesel shortages, residents warned not to hoard fuel

Concerns about a fuel shortage are mounting in the Western Cape as motorists brace for steep fuel price increases expected in April.

Authorities insist there is no shortage, but reports from petrol stations and farmers suggest growing pressure on supply.

Government urges calm, warns against hoarding

The provincial and national governments have assured residents that there is sufficient fuel in the province.

Residents have been warned not to hoard fuel in anticipation of price hikes.

The expected increase is linked to April adjustments, including levies and taxes, as well as global oil supply disruptions tied to geopolitical tensions.

Isolated shortages reported despite reassurances

The Fuel Retailers Association says there are no widespread shortages.

However, isolated supply issues have been reported in some areas.

These are not due to a lack of fuel but rather to delays in supplier deliveries.

Farmers report limited diesel access

Agricultural leaders say the situation on the ground tells a different story.

“Seventy to seventy-five percent of the feedback indicated that they do not have access to fuel,” said Agri Western Cape CEO Jannie Strydom.

Reports of dry filling stations have also emerged.

Supply blockage suspected

Industry players say the problem appears to be within the supply chain.

“Somewhere there’s a blockage or an issue supplying the diesel,” Strydom said.

Questions are being raised about whether supply delays are linked to the anticipated price increase of between R7 and R10 per litre in April.

Agriculture at risk as planting season begins

The timing is critical for farmers entering the winter planting season.

Diesel accounts for between 12% and 18% of input costs.

Farmers are now considering scaling back operations.

“They’re now considering reducing the hectares,” Strydom said, warning that ongoing supply issues could impact production.

While many farmers have reserves, uncertainty remains about continued access to fuel in the coming weeks.

For more information, listen to Strydom on CapeTalk’s Good Morning Cape Town with Lester Kiewit using the audio player below: