Business

South Africa Dethrones Nigeria as Africa’s Biggest Fuel Importer

Published by Akinwale Fakinlede on October 5th, 2025.

According to recent trade reports, South Africa’s fuel import volumes have surged significantly in the past year, driven by rising industrial demand and domestic supply shortfalls. The country’s robust logistics network, coupled with policy reforms aimed at stabilizing its energy market, has positioned it as the continent’s leading importer.

On the other hand, Nigeria’s situation tells a different story. Despite being one of the world’s top oil producers, the nation continues to rely heavily on imported fuel due to decades of refinery inefficiency and maintenance failures. The delay in the full operation of the Dangote Refinery and government-owned refineries has further worsened the situation, forcing the country to spend billions on fuel imports annually.

Economic analysts say South Africa’s rise reflects the country’s better management of its energy sector and more consistent trade strategies. Nigeria’s overdependence on imports, weak refining output, and unstable forex policies have contributed to its declining position.

Experts also warn that Nigeria’s inability to refine its crude locally not only affects its trade balance but also undermines its economic sovereignty. The nation’s fuel import bills continue to drain foreign reserves and inflate domestic fuel prices, pushing inflation higher.

As South Africa cements its new status, energy stakeholders across Africa are calling for stronger collaboration and investment in refining infrastructure to reduce reliance on foreign markets. For Nigeria, the latest development is a wake-up call to accelerate reforms and fully operationalize its refineries if it hopes to reclaim its dominance in the continent’s energy

landscape.