Santaco calls on govt to protect operators, commuters from fuel price spike
The South African National Taxi Council (Santaco) has warned of the urgent need for intervention to protect commuters and operators amid rising diesel prices and fuel supply pressures.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Santaco said projections of significant fuel price increases and reports of fuel shortages are creating panic within the taxi industry.
The latest data from the Central Energy Fund is pointing to a petrol increase of over R5,00 a litre, while diesel is expected to increase by more than R9,00.
The price hikes are due to take effect on Wednesday.
Iran has virtually closed the vital Strait of Hormuz -- through which a fifth of global crude and gas flows -- since the United States and Israel began striking the country on February 28.
The council noted that some fuel stations are overpricing diesel, which is less regulated than petrol, further straining daily taxi operations.
"We are acting with urgency to stabilise the situation and protect both operators and commuters. We call on the government to immediately provide clear direction on fuel price expectations and to work with us on practical relief measures," said the organisation’s president, Abnar Tsebe.
"The taxi industry remains committed to keeping South Africa moving, and we will do so in a way that balances sustainability with the needs of our commuters.”
While no uniform fare increase has been announced, some taxi associations have begun adjusting fares to cover rising operational costs.
Santaco emphasised that commuters would be informed transparently through notice boards, vehicles, and official communication platforms.
"Taxi fare adjustments are not ordinarily made in response to fuel price fluctuations alone, but the current pressures, including fuel supply constraints and rising costs, require immediate attention," Tsebe said.
To address both immediate and long-term challenges, Santaco said it would engage the government on several interventions, including introducing a commuter-centric subsidy model, considering temporary relief on fuel levies for public transport operators, and working with fuel suppliers to prioritise access for taxis to ensure the continuity of commuter services.
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