The party welcomed the minister’s decision to reduce the fuel levy by R3.00 per litre for one month, but warned the move merely postpones the burden. FF Plus spokesperson Dr Wynand Boshoff said while the measure brings temporary relief, the lost revenue will ultimately have to be recovered.

“The reduction of fuel levy for a month eases the pain for reckless motorists, but the lost tax will have to be recovered from motorists later. 

The FF Plus had previously raised concerns in parliament about the impact of rising fuel prices and asked what fiscal interventions could be implemented to cushion consumers. This comes as the newly approved fiscal framework leaves limited room for additional relief measures and already includes increases in the fuel levy.

He said the party hopes global oil market conditions will stabilise within the month of the concession.

“The FF Plus hopes, together with the minister, international fluctuations that led to the increase in crude oil prices will return to normal. If so, the revenue that the state loses that month can be recovered without increasing fuel prices again. After that, price setting can return to normal.”

The fuel levy was reduced from R4.10 to R1.10 per litre for both petrol and diesel on Wednesday (1/4), a move aimed at shielding consumers from steep increases driven by rising global oil prices and a weaker rand. Without the intervention, diesel prices were expected to rise by more than R7.37 per litre.

Financial sacrifice

Godongwana described the decision as a significant financial sacrifice, with the government expected to lose approximately R6 billion in revenue for April alone.

The development has also reignited debate about South Africa’s reliance on imported fuel. Boshoff highlighted the importance of local energy security, pointing to Sasol as a key strategic asset.

“The current crisis highlights South Africa’s dependence on imported fuels, and a sustainable electricity supply to support alternative transport options is equally critical.”

Meanwhile, other stakeholders in the sector have largely welcomed the temporary relief. The Automobile Association of South Africa described the R6 billion cost as a necessary intervention to support the struggling economy, while the Motor Industry Staff Association also expressed support.

The South African Petroleum Retailers Association (Sapra) reassured motorists that although fuel price pressures remain, there is no need for panic.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi dg

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