(Ecofin Agency) - A three weeks industrial action that has resulted in limited supply disruptions by the South African petroleum sector employers and workers has been called off with the signing of a new two-year wage deal, an official representing employers revealed. About 15,000 striking workers under the aegis of the Chemical, Energy, Paper, Printing, Wood and Allied Workers union (CEPPWAWU) went on strike at refineries and fuel depots run by BP, Shell, Chevron and Sasol, amongst others.

According to the deputy chairman of the National Petroleum Employer's Association, Zimisele Majamane, the petroleum sector employers and workers have agreed to a 7% salary increase in 2016 and an April CPI including a 1.5% increase in the second year.“The strike will be called off today (Wednesday) and employees will have until Monday to get back to work,” Majamane said.

The workers after demanding for a 9% one-year salary agreement, launched a strike on July 28 when the employers rejected the demand.The strike had a limited effect on the country which relies on refined petroleum imports to meet domestic demand as slight fuel supply disruptions were reported in Gauteng province, Reuters reports.

Anita Fatunji