Workers face rising fuel and electricity costs, with many already struggling to make ends meet. Image: Supplied.
MISA
1Min
South Africa
Workers face rising fuel and electricity costs, with many already struggling to make ends meet.
The Motor Industry Staff Association (MISA) has urged the South African government to introduce a temporary reduction in fuel levies to shield workers and their families from rising living costs.
This comes as global oil prices surge due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, with South Africans expected to face one of the sharpest increases in petrol and diesel prices from 1 April.
MISA says urgent action is needed, warning that workers cannot afford further delays. Many South Africans already spend more than half of their income on transport and electricity.
The pressure is expected to worsen as electricity tariffs increase. Eskom has announced an 8.76% hike for the 2026/27 financial year starting on 1 April 2026, while municipal customers are set to see an average increase of 9.01% from 1 July 2026.
MISA Chief Executive Officer for Operations, Martle Keyter, “Workers are being crushed by the rising cost of fuel and electricity. Families are forced to choose between commuting to work, putting food on the table, or keeping the lights on. This is not sustainable,”.
The association also warned that rising fuel costs could lead to job losses in the retail motor industry. As households cut spending, dealerships and workshops may struggle to absorb costs, putting jobs at risk.
MISA has called on the government to act quickly and put workers first, saying temporary fuel levy relief is necessary to ease financial pressure and prevent further economic hardship.
