South Africa fuel prices to hit record highs in April

African reporting focuses on South Africa, where April 2026 petrol and diesel prices are forecast to hit record levels. Commentators link the jump to both global oil prices and the weak rand, warning of higher costs for commuters, freight companies, and food producers. There is concern that already strained households will struggle with transport and living costs as the new prices take effect.

• •South Africa’s energy department has signalled that April petrol and diesel prices will reach all-time highs in rand terms.
• •The weaker South African rand against the US dollar is amplifying the impact of higher global oil prices on local fuel costs.
• •Taxi operators and freight companies in South Africa expect to raise fares and delivery charges once April fuel prices are implemented.
• •South African unions and consumer groups warn that record fuel prices will push up food and basic goods prices.
• •Commentators in South Africa link the April fuel shock to both international oil markets and domestic currency weakness.

Chinese coverage highlights the government’s decision to raise regulated fuel prices as a necessary response to higher global oil benchmarks. Authorities are portrayed as balancing the need to reflect world prices with efforts to keep inflation in check for drivers and industry. Airlines and logistics firms in China and wider Asia are shown adjusting fares, routes, and cost plans to cope with more expensive fuel.