Gwede Mantashe has once again sought to reassure South Africans that the country will not run out of fuel despite ongoing geopolitical instability and soaring global oil prices.
Speaking during his budget vote address in the National Assembly of South Africa on Tuesday, Mantashe acknowledged the growing concerns surrounding fuel supply and rising petrol prices but insisted that government is working to strengthen the country’s energy security.
The minister warned, however, that South Africa’s heavy reliance on imported refined petroleum products remains a serious vulnerability, especially during periods of international conflict and market instability.
Mantashe said restoring and expanding South Africa’s refining capacity is essential if the country hopes to protect itself from future global fuel crises and price shocks.
Mantashe Says South Africa Must Expand Refining Capacity
During his address, Mantashe emphasised that South Africa currently lacks sufficient refining infrastructure to meet domestic fuel demand.
According to the minister, the country’s existing refining capacity can currently supply only around 40% of national fuel needs.
“The reality confronting us is that South Africa remains overly dependent on imported refined petroleum products,” Mantashe said.
He explained that this dependence leaves the country highly exposed to international disruptions, including geopolitical tensions, shipping challenges, and sudden increases in oil prices.
Mantashe argued that rebuilding and expanding local refining operations would significantly improve the country’s energy security and reduce vulnerability to external shocks.
The minister believes South Africa must invest more aggressively in its refining industry despite criticism from some environmental lobby groups.
“If we don’t do that, we will only realise how correct it is when there is a crisis, as it is now,” he said.
Mantashe also cautioned South Africans that current government interventions aimed at softening the impact of high fuel prices are not permanent solutions.
The government recently introduced temporary fuel levy relief measures to reduce pressure on consumers as international fuel prices surged.
However, Mantashe stressed that these measures cannot continue indefinitely because they place additional strain on public finances.
He warned that unless South Africa strengthens its own refining and energy production capabilities, the country could continue facing recurring fuel price instability whenever international markets experience disruptions.
The minister’s remarks come as many South Africans struggle with the rising cost of living, with higher fuel prices affecting transport, food costs, and economic activity across the country.
Analysts say prolonged increases in fuel prices could place further pressure on inflation and household budgets.
The minister’s comments come against the backdrop of growing geopolitical tensions affecting global oil markets.
International conflicts and instability in major oil-producing regions have contributed to sharp increases in fuel prices worldwide.
South Africa, like many countries dependent on imported fuel, has felt the impact of rising oil prices and supply concerns.
Mantashe warned that global crises demonstrate the dangers of relying too heavily on imported refined petroleum products.
He suggested that South Africa must learn from the current situation by prioritising long-term energy independence and improving local production capabilities.
The government has repeatedly stated that the country’s fuel supply remains stable despite market pressures, but concerns about future shortages and price hikes continue to grow among consumers and businesses.
Mantashe also used his address to defend continued investment in fossil fuel infrastructure and refining projects.
The minister has often clashed with environmental activists and lobby groups who argue that South Africa should move away from fossil fuels and accelerate its transition toward renewable energy.
However, Mantashe maintains that oil, gas, and refining infrastructure remain critical to the country’s economic stability and energy security.
He argued that abandoning refining capacity without sufficient alternatives could leave South Africa dangerously exposed during global crises.
The minister said the current international fuel situation demonstrates why the country cannot afford to neglect its petroleum industry while pursuing energy transition goals.
His comments are expected to reignite debate between government, environmental groups, and energy experts over South Africa’s future energy strategy.
Throughout his speech, Mantashe repeatedly stressed the importance of energy security for South Africa’s economy and national stability.
Reliable fuel supply remains essential for transport, manufacturing, mining, agriculture, and other key sectors of the economy.
Any major disruption to fuel availability could have severe economic consequences and further increase pressure on already struggling households.
Mantashe said strengthening local refining capacity would not only improve supply stability but could also help create jobs and support industrial growth.
The minister believes the country must take proactive steps now rather than waiting for a larger crisis to expose weaknesses in the energy sector.
His remarks formed part of broader discussions around South Africa’s energy future, economic resilience, and preparedness for international market disruptions.
Mantashe’s statements are likely to fuel ongoing debate about South Africa’s long-term energy policy and the balance between fossil fuels and renewable energy investment.
Supporters of expanded refining argue that South Africa must reduce dependence on imported fuel to protect the economy from external shocks.
Critics, however, believe the country should prioritise cleaner energy alternatives and reduce reliance on petroleum infrastructure over time.
The discussion comes as governments around the world grapple with balancing energy security, environmental commitments, and economic pressures.
For South Africa, the challenge remains particularly significant due to the country’s dependence on imported refined fuel and ongoing economic difficulties.
Despite concerns about rising fuel prices and international instability, Mantashe insisted that South Africans should not panic about immediate fuel shortages.
The minister assured Parliament that government continues monitoring the situation closely while exploring long-term solutions to strengthen the country’s energy resilience.
He stressed that improving refining capacity remains one of the most important steps toward protecting South Africa from future fuel crises.
As global uncertainty continues affecting oil markets, Mantashe’s message focused on the need for preparedness, local production, and energy independence to safeguard the country’s future.
