South Africa is moving to significantly increase its strategic fuel reserves, aiming to protect its economy from potential supply disruptions and volatile international energy markets. Currently holding reserves sufficient for roughly two weeks of consumption, the nation intends to raise capacity to the equivalent of 60 days of net imports – nearly tripling the existing level. This decision, announced by Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy Gwede Mantashe, comes amid heightened global geopolitical instability and ongoing supply chain issues. The current legal capacity is around 10.3 million barrels, but actual reserves are closer to eight million. The proposed strategy will task the South African National Oil Company with maintaining the expanded reserves. Officials cite a growing risk associated with the country’s reliance on imported refined petroleum products, emphasizing the need for greater energy security. A new national policy regarding strategic oil reserves is currently under review.