Warning on expected fuel and food price hikes

Please keep in mind that the conflict raging in the Gulf region has a serious impact on the world economy, particularly the oil price—due to the fact that one of the main transport routes for oil is currently blocked / unsafe for ships.  As the oil price increases, the fuel price will increase.  South Africa will buffer the impact as far as possible by drawing from our reserves and also our own production of fuel, but it will still have a serious impact.  Please keep this in mind when you do your budget. The sad story is that if the fuel increases, food costs and all other items will increase as most items have to be transported.  Another reason to support local businesses instead!