Fuel supply secure as Government holds talks with Singapore

The Government is in discussions with Singapore partners to secure fuel supplies amid global disruptions linked to the United States–Iran conflict.

Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations Agni Deo Singh has urged Fijians to remain patient, assuring that fuel stocks remain stable.

Mr Singh said Minister for Foreign Affairs Sakiasi Ditoka is currently in Singapore engaging with partners to ensure a consistent fuel supply despite the ongoing crisis.

“We are working on the availability of fuel, we have been assured that we will not have a problem with fuel supply in the near future,” he said.

He acknowledged that fuel prices are expected to continue rising due to global demand and supply challenges.

Mr Singh said the fuel crisis was a worldwide issue driven by external factors.

“We are doing our level best to mitigate government usage of fuel, we have taken a few decisions to increase social welfare assistance,” he said.

He said Government was also mindful of the financial strain on public transport operators, including bus companies facing higher weekly fuel costs.

“We want to assist bus operators and Energy Fiji Limited (EFL), we want to assist employers as much as possible”.

To manage the impact, Government has introduced measures to reduce fuel use, including limiting official vehicle trips and requiring approval from Permanent Secretaries for urgent travel.

Labasa Taxi Association general secretary Sujit Sharma said fuel availability was critical to keeping taxi operations running.

Mr Sharma warned that without fuel, the industry would struggle, with many families relying on it for income.

He urged drivers to limit unnecessary trips and prioritise fuel for work purposes.

Dalip Chand and Son Pte Limited managing director Rohinil Chand said rising fuel costs had increased operational expenses, but services would continue.

Mr Chand said a fare increase could be considered, depending on further discussions.

The company operates more than 70 buses across the Northern Division, servicing most routes.