No need for panic | WC government says there’s no fuel shortage, warns against stock hoarding

Premier Alan Winde said the province has sufficient fuel reserves, despite growing concerns linked to instability in the Middle East. The Western Cape Government has moved to reassure residents that there is no fuel shortage in the province, while issuing a strong warning tosuppliers accused of withholding stock in anticipation of higher prices. “The Western Cape Government recognises the very real concerns raised about the impact of the Middle East conflict on fuel supply in the province,” the Government said.

“We want to assure residents that there is sufficient supply of fuel in the Western Cape to meet demand.” Authorities say isolated shortages reported in some areas are not due to a lack of fuel, but rather to suppliers delaying deliveries. The provincial government has flagged this as particularly damaging to the agricultural sector, where some farmers are reportedly receiving only about 20% of their usual diesel allocations. According to Agri Western Cape,the situation is most severein the Garden Route and West Coast districts, raising concern as the region approaches key periods for fruit harvesting and winter grain planting.

The Fuel Industry Association of South Africa is now working with agricultural stakeholders to identify companies that may be restricting supply. Winde issued a stern warning to those found engaging in such practices. “It is unethical for suppliers to delay the delivery of fuel, while waiting for prices to increase. Any supplier found to be engaged in this conduct will be assessed for legal liability and recourse,” he said.