Petrol price hike, again
JOHANNESBURG – Fuel price increase to hit diesel and paraffin users harder.
The ongoing oil strength, with minimal support from the stronger rand/US dollar exchange rate, has set the stage for further increases in the fuel price.
This according to the Automobile Association (AA), which was commenting on unaudited mid-month data released by the Central Energy Fund (CEF).
“International petroleum prices have appreciated less sharply in the month to date than was the case in the equivalent period in May, but the gains have nonetheless been significant,” the AA said.
“Meanwhile, the stronger rand/US dollar exchange rate has not been enough to counter oil’s rises, giving a risk of substantial fuel price hikes at the beginning of July.”
The mid-month data predicts a rise of up to 27 cents a litre for petrol and 61 cents a litre for diesel. Illuminating paraffin is also under pressure, with the data currently showing a 60 cent rise.
“With the cold of winter having set in, people who use paraffin for heating and cooking are poised to experience a sharp jump in their energy costs, in addition to a rise in transport-related costs,” the association said.
“Economic shocks which weaken the exchange rate could worsen the picture by month end.
“We advise South African motorists to reconsider their driving patterns and car-sharing habits in order to economise in the event that the current run of fuel price rises continues in the medium term.”
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