Government and Industry reiterates assurances on fuel supply and urges the public not to panic-buy

MEDIA STATEMENT
Friday, 20 March 2026
Government and Industry reiterates assurances on fuel supply and urges the
public not to panic-buy
The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR) has noted with concern
the circulation of statements and messages by certain organisations and individuals
encouraging members of the public to rush to filling stations due to a perceived fuel
shortage and anticipated fuel price increases.
The Department and Fuels Industry Association wish to firmly reiterate that South
Africa's fuel supply remains stable in the immediate term, and there is no basis for
panic-buying.
While there may be isolated localised logistical challenges affecting the movement or
availability of fuel in certain areas, these are operational in nature and do not constitute
a national supply shortage. These issues are being actively managed through
established industry and regulatory channels.
It is therefore incorrect and misleading to link such isolated domestic logistical matters
to broader geopolitical developments. Such claims risk creating unnecessary alarm
and confusion among the public.
Calls for the public to rush to the pumps are irresponsible. They place undue pressure
on supply systems, congestion at service stations, and anxiety among consumers.
The Department calls all organisations, public representatives, commentators and
social media users to act responsibly and to refrain from spreading unverified or
speculative claims regarding fuel supply and fuel price developments.
Members of the public are encouraged to continue purchasing fuel in the normal
course and to rely on official government communication for accurate and verified
information.
Consumers who experience fuel-related challenges or wish to lodge complaints are
encouraged to report these to [email protected], enabling the
department's inspectors to respond and intervene where necessary.
The Department and the Fuels Industry Association will continue to monitor the
situation closely and will communicate any confirmed developments through official
channels.
End.
Enquiries: Lerato Ntsoko [email protected] / [email protected] /
0824592788
Phila Mzamo [email protected] / 0664232319
Issued jointly by the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources and Fuels
Industry Association of South Africa