Appeals for greater discussions on petrol price relief
The South African Petroleum Retailers Association said further discussions are needed before decisions can be made on the best way forward for petrol price relief for consumers.
The South African Petroleum Retailers Association (SAPRA), a constituent association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), said further discussions are needed before decisions can be made on the best way forward for petrol price relief for consumers.
Vishal Premlall, SAPRA director, said as a key stakeholder, it has been approached by government for comment on the proposed publication of maximum retail prices for 93 octane fuel, and has appealed for an extension on the required date for comment.
“We are concerned that the timeline allotted to give input will not enable fair and reasonable consultation with all affected stakeholders,” he said.
He added that it’s of significant importance that a proposal of this magnitude, coupled with current market conditions, low demand, margin under-recovery and continuing rising costs, could result in job losses.
“There needs to be clarity on items such as price competition between retailers, the next steps once the proposal goes ahead, and how new entrants to the market will be affected, among other things. We believe the only way to gain clarity will be through an intensive impact analysis conducted by an independent company and input from all stakeholders.”
“We strongly support government’s attempts to lower the ever-increasing fuel price that has impacted cash-strapped consumers, businesses at large and the overall economic stability of South Africa. However, the attempt needs to be explored in further detail.
“Putting this responsibility on the retailer is not going to yield the significant results needed to bring about consumer relief. It would be preferable to conduct a full analysis of the basic fuel price,” he concluded.
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