Sunday Independent writes that prices of food and other commodities are likely to increase as a backlash from the ongoing attacks on trucks forces distributors to seek alternative logistics.
About 84 trucks have been burnt so far in protests by local truck drivers who are complaining of being marginalised in favour of foreign nationals. The violent action, which started almost six months ago, has claimed the life of one driver. Economist Mike Schüssler said the strike would lead to an increase in food prices and a jobs bloodbath: “I know lots of these truck companies are getting more security, and the cost of transport in South Africa is going to increase. This will lead to hunger, and not only in South Africa but to other African countries, because 10% of our trucks go outside the border every week. This is a mess that creates fear. It is an attack on the economy.” Schüssler called on the government to intervene because the industry created jobs. SA Long-Distance Truckers spokesperson Doreen van Rooyen said the violent attacks have had a negative impact on the logistic companies and as a result a lot of companies were closing down. “Somewhere along the line cost must be recovered. And in the end the public will pay for it. Food prices will increase,” Van Rooyen warned. Truckers Association of SA president Mary Phadi condemned the arson attacks: “This is a serious concern because employees are in danger. This also affects the delivery of products. This also requires companies to beef up security and this costs money.” Last week, the Road Freight Association appealed to President Cyril Ramaphosa to intervene. The departments of labour, home affairs, transport and state security released a joint statement and vowed to act decisively.
- Read the full original of the report in the above regard by Manyane Manyane at Sunday Independent
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