South African commuters are bracing for higher taxi fares after the May 2026 fuel price hike pushed petrol up by R3.27 a litre and diesel by R6.19. Operators say the increases can no longer be absorbed.
Read more: Petrol hits R26.52 a litre: full breakdown of SA’s 6 May 2026 fuel hike
SANTACO confirms fare increases
The South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) has acknowledged that fare hikes are unavoidable. Spokesperson Rebecca Phala confirmed the body has guided local associations to raise local fares by between R2 and R6, with long-distance routes climbing by R10 to R30.
Pressure on commuters
The minibus taxi industry moves more than 60% of South Africa’s public transport users. With transport already consuming 30% to 40% of household income for many workers, the new fares will hit lower-income commuters hardest.
Operators feeling the squeeze
Operators warn that without fare adjustments, many routes would become financially unviable as diesel costs continue to climb. Industry bodies have called on Treasury to consider further fuel levy relief.
Source: EWN, The South African, SANTACO
