Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources Gwede Mantashe has issued a warning to petrol station operators
Image: David Ritchie/Independent Newspapers
Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources Gwede Mantashe has issued a warning to petrol station operators, cautioning against practices that undermine fuel market integrity and public trust.
Speaking at the Fuels Industry Imbizo at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg, Mantashe said some operators have increased fuel prices ahead of official adjustments.
"We remain troubled by incidents where some operators increased fuel prices ahead of official price adjustments. While these actions were limited to a minority of participants, they undermined public confidence and tarnished the reputation of the broader industry," Mantashe said.
He warned that compliance with regulatory requirements is not optional, saying it is fundamental to maintaining public trust and ensuring a level playing field for all participants.
"Compliance with regulatory requirements is not optional. It is fundamental to maintaining public trust and ensuring a level playing field for all participants".
He also raised concern over fuel adulteration, particularly the illegal blending of diesel with illuminating paraffin.
"Equally concerning is the continued adulteration of fuel products, particularly the illegal blending of diesel with illuminating paraffin. This criminal activity undermines the rule of law, distorts markets, damages equipment, compromises consumer confidence, and poses significant risks to our economy and national security".
He added that the government will continue to work with law enforcement to clamp down on illegal activity in the fuel sector.
"Government continues to work closely with law enforcement agencies to combat this illicittrade. However, we cannot succeed alone. Industry cooperation remains essential in identifying offenders and strengthening compliance throughout the value chain.
"This Imbizo provides us with an opportunity to engage frankly about the future of our industry and to collectively shape a petroleum sector that remains secure".
IOL Business