Fuel prices will remain unchanged for this month except for a 4.9 cents a litre increase in the retail margin of petrol, Energy Minister Jeff Radebe said.
“The Minister of Energy Jeff Radebe, announces that the fuel prices will remain unchanged for this month except the 4.9c/l increase in the retail margin of petrol to cater for the annual salary increase for forecourt attendants, cashiers and other administration staff,” said the Department of Energy on Monday.
The annual increase is effective from Wednesday and the money must be ring-fenced for the wages of the forecourt staff.
A litre of 95 LRP petrol in Gauteng will now cost consumers R16.08.
This was a result of government intervention in the matter with the department saying it has witnessed sustained increases in the price of fuel in the past few months which placed a strain on consumers.
Except for the 4.9 cents increase on the retail margin of petrol other fuel prices remain unchanged. The 4.9c/l salary increase is in line with the Motor Industry Bargaining Council (MIBCO) agreement of 18 November 2016.
“Despite the fact that these increases were caused mainly by international factors, the department has decided to intervene temporarily for this month. This is a once off temporary intervention to provide some relief to motorists and consumers against fuel price hikes,” said the Minister. - SAnews.gov.za