The SA National Taxi Council has warned of possible taxi fare increases due to looming fuel price hikes from April 1.
Image: File
The South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) has warned that taxi fare increases may be imminent as operators grapple with fuel shortages, rising diesel costs, and supply constraints across the country.
In a statement, the council said growing uncertainty around projected fuel price increases has already begun to affect daily operations. Month-end data from the Central Energy Fund, according to an IOL article, is pointing to petrol price increases from April 1 of between R5.31 for 93 Unleaded and R5.82 for 95 Unleaded. Diesel looks set to increase by between R10.13 in the case of 500ppm and R10.27 for the cleaner 50ppm.
“SANTACO confirms its grave concern about the panic affecting daily taxi operations. Reports of fuel shortages, limitations on refuelling volumes, and escalating diesel prices are already putting strain on taxi associations and operators across the country,” the statement read.
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The council said diesel price increases were of particular concern, noting indications that some fuel stations were taking advantage of the fact that diesel prices are not regulated at the pump.
SANTACO president Abner Tsebe said the industry is engaging with the government.
“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. 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,” Tsebe said.
While no blanket fare increase has been announced, SANTACO said individual taxi associations retain the authority to adjust fares based on operational pressures. Some associations have already begun communicating increases to commuters.
“Therefore, commuters are advised that all changes and increases will be communicated transparently through official notice boards at taxi ranks, inside vehicles, and via verified association communication platforms,” the council said.
SANTACO added that fare adjustments are not typically driven by fuel price changes alone but are determined through a broader assessment of operational costs, including vehicle maintenance, financing, licensing, and other overheads.
The organisation said any increases currently under consideration were a direct response to “exceptional and immediate pressures” in the industry.
To address both short- and long-term challenges, SANTACO said it would engage with the government on several interventions, including a commuter-focused subsidy model, possible temporary relief on fuel levies for public transport operators, and prioritised access to fuel supplies for the sector.
The council said it remains committed to working with the government and industry stakeholders to ensure stability and continuity of commuter services.
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