Kerosene price surge hits hardest

Fijians who rely on kerosene daily for cooking, lighting, or traditional obligations will now have to dig deeper into their pockets as kerosene prices have recorded the steepest increase in the latest fuel price review that comes into effect today.

New prices released by the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) show kerosene rising sharply across the country, with the biggest increases among all fuel products.

On Viti Levu, kerosene has jumped from $1.69 to $2.40 per litre, an increase of 71 cents. 

In Rotuma, the price has climbed even higher, rising from $2.38 to $3.14 per litre — a 76-cent increase, the highest recorded nationwide. 

The FCCC said the sharp increase was driven by a surge in international refined fuel prices, with kerosene rising by 59.80 per cent globally during the assessment period. 

It said diesel prices were also affected by similar global trends, while motor spirit and premix increases were linked to higher international benchmark prices and a stronger United States dollar. 

The commission noted that despite a drop in international freight rates, the overall cost pressures — including global supply disruptions and geopolitical tensions — pushed local prices higher. 

Kerosene, which remains VAT exempt, is widely used by low-income households, making the increase particularly significant. 

The FCCC said it had implemented measures to cushion the impact, including partial absorption of cost increases and close monitoring of supply chain costs.