R50 billion petrol bill headache for South Africa

• South Africa has spent over R50 billion more to import fuel since the war in the Middle East began in late February 2026.
• The Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) noted that the war has taken a heavy toll on global markets, which had had to pay far more for fuel due to the rise in oil prices.
• Petrol prices are expected to increase by around R2 per litre, while diesel users will be hit with a R2.69 per litre hike in October.