Thousands of Western Cape commuters are paying more to travel from Monday (18 May 2026) after minibus taxi operators implemented fare increases linked to rising fuel and operating costs.
The increases will hit low-income households hard, with many already spending a significant share of their income on transport before the latest hike.
Short-distance taxi trips have increased by R2 to R5, while some long-distance commuters now face fares of between R150 and R200.
The Western Cape taxi industry said the increases were unavoidable following recent fuel price hikes.
Nearly one million passengers use minibus taxis daily in the province, where taxis account for roughly 75% of all public transport.
Taxi commuters under pressure
The fare increases come as many South Africans continue to battle high food prices, electricity costs and broader inflation pressures.
Economists previously warned that the fuel price increases seen in April would eventually push up the cost of transport, goods and services.
For many workers who rely on taxis every day, the latest increases will mean even less disposable income at the end of the month.
During an interview on CapeTalk, SANTACO Western Cape chairperson Besuthu Ndungane acknowledged the pressure.
“We are deeply concerned,” he said.
Ndungane said operators had tried to avoid increasing fares but could no longer absorb rising costs.
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Industry says costs go beyond fuel
The taxi industry said fuel was only one factor driving the fare increases.
Vehicle servicing, tyre prices and other operational expenses have also climbed sharply.
Hermanus said taxi fares had not increased for some time despite mounting costs across the sector.
He added that operators had been instructed to implement the increases responsibly and communicate changes clearly to commuters.
The industry also warned against cutting costs in ways that could compromise passenger safety or vehicle maintenance.
Calls for government support
The taxi industry is again calling for government subsidies for minibus taxi operators.
Ndungane argued that the sector carries the majority of public transport commuters in South Africa but receives limited financial support compared with other transport systems.
He said operators had effectively been carrying part of the burden of keeping transport affordable for poorer commuters.
The industry said integrated public transport planning and government support could help reduce commuting costs over time.
For now, however, commuters across the Western Cape are left facing another increase in the monthly cost of getting to work, school and home.
Kabous Le Roux
www.ewn.co.za