As South Africa faces a significant diesel price hike, experts warn of impending increases in food and transport costs, putting additional strain on households and businesses already grappling with economic challenges.
South Africans may be paying less for petrol from today, but the sharp increase in diesel prices is expected to push up the cost of transporting goods, food and other essentials within weeks, business leaders and consumer advocates have warned.
The regulated wholesale price of 0.05% sulphur diesel increased by R1.38 a litre, while 0.005% sulphur diesel rose by R1.23 a litre from today.
The increase comes despite a 52-cent-a-litre cut in petrol prices, aided by a reduction in the slate levy.
Industry groups say the diesel increase is likely to offset much of the relief from the petrol price cut because South Africa's freight, agriculture and logistics sectors rely heavily on diesel.
