Minister Ntshavheni blames panic buying for dry pumps, rules out war impact

Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshaveni says consumers will be able to report fuel stations that overcharged them ahead of Wednesday’s price hike.

Ntshaveni said a hotline is being set up for this purpose, but consumers will have to provide proof of being charged more than the regulated price.

On behalf of the Cabinet, Nthshaveni has once again moved to assure the country that fuel stocks are not under threat because of the US’s war on Iran.

South Africa imports the bulk of its oil from Angola and Nigeria.

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Ntshaveni said fuel stations that ran dry ahead of this week’s fuel price hike were caused by panic buying and fuel hoarding as consumers tried to avoid paying more for fuel.

She said this also led to logistical constraints in moving fuel from refineries.

"This is not the first fuel increase. Fuel increases happen continuously in the year. Fuel increases are not happening because of the war."

Ntshaveni said government is aware of fuel station owners who attempted to scam motorists ahead of the massive price surge.

"We are going to publicise a number and contact information to which the complaints can be directed."

With only two operational refineries left in the country, Ntshaveni said government is discussing increasing refining capacity.