Fears over fuel pressures are growing in the Western Cape as motorists, farmers and businesses brace for another major price shock. Cape Town Etc reported that parts of the province, especially along the Garden Route, have seen diesel shortages and rationing at some service stations.

The concern comes as South Africans prepare for steep fuel price increases from 1 April 2026. According to the source report, petrol is expected to rise by more than R5 a litre, while diesel could jump by more than R9 a litre. That has added pressure to households already stretched by transport and food costs.

Alan Winde Warns Against Hoarding

Western Cape Premier Alan Winde said the province started picking up reports of shortages last week. He warned that some suppliers may be holding back fuel bought at lower prices so it can be sold later at a higher price. He described that as unacceptable and said the province is engaging with the fuel industry to deal with the conflicting information coming from official channels and on-the-ground reports.

Winde also urged suppliers and the public not to hoard fuel. While government and industry bodies have insisted that national supply remains stable, shortages in some areas have already raised fresh anxiety across the province.

Farmers and Consumers Could Feel the Pain

The impact is not only being felt at the pumps. Cape Town Etc reported that farmers in the South Cape say limited diesel access is disrupting operations during a crucial planting and harvesting period. Rising fuel costs are also pushing up input prices such as fertiliser, which could place more pressure on food production and grocery prices in the weeks ahead.

The fuel issue could hit far beyond filling up a tank. Higher transport costs often filter through to taxi fares, food prices and other essentials.

DA Calls for Urgent Fuel Levy Relief

In response, the Democratic Alliance has called for an urgent 50% cut to both the general fuel levy and the Road Accident Fund levy. DA finance spokesperson Mark Burke said South Africans should not be forced to carry the full cost of an international oil shock. The party claims the move could reduce fuel prices by about R3.17 a litre, based on current levy levels of R6.35 a litre.

The DA said it will formally write to President Cyril Ramaphosa and Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana to push for urgent intervention.