By Priya Ranchod
South African commuters will not face a taxi fare increase for now. The South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) resolved it on Wednesday, 7 October 2026, that no hike will be announced or implemented while it engages government on rising fuel costs and the long term sustainability of the industry.
The decision was taken at a meeting of the council's National Executive Committee (NEC) in Johannesburg, following extensive deliberations on the financial pressures facing operators and the likely impact on the people who depend on taxis every day.
SANTACO will first approach government to establish whether any form of assistance or intervention can be made available to the industry. The outcome of those talks will determine its next steps, including whether fare adjustments may ultimately become necessary.
Commuters are urged not to panic or expect an immediate rise. SANTACO has confirmed that no new fare increase has been announced at this stage.
SANTACO Public Relations Officer Mr Semang Masemola said the industry remains mindful of the financial pressures faced by both operators and commuters.
"We want to reassure commuters that there is currently no fare increase being introduced. The NEC has resolved that we must first engage government and explore possible interventions before considering any further measures. We understand the pressure that any increase would place on operators and commuters, and we therefore believe it is important that all avenues are explored before such a decision is taken."
For now, the fares commuters pay remain unchanged, but the question of how long that lasts rests largely on what government is prepared to offer. SANTACO says it will update the public once the engagements have taken place and the industry has clarity on the way forward.