JOHANNESBURG - Record diesel prices in May are set to ripple through South Africa’s shipping sector, as Transnet Port Terminals hikes its fuel neutrality charge.
The surcharge will increase to R78 per container from 1 June, up from R52 earlier this month.
The adjustment is linked to diesel price thresholds, with current levels nearing a higher bracket that could push the charge above R100 per container.
Transnet says the charge is a temporary cost-recovery measure, introduced after diesel prices surged by more than R13 since March.
Industry bodies have already warned that the surcharge could force tough operational decisions across the freight sector.
While diesel prices are expected to ease slightly in June, relief may be limited as government scales back its fuel levy reduction.