Motorists face biggest fuel shock yet, diesel users hit hardest

Diesel users have been hit with the biggest fuel price increase in Fiji's latest fuel review, with prices climbing by as much as 80 cents a litre from today as global market turmoil continues to drive costs higher.

The Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) announced the new fuel and LPG prices effective June 1, saying unprecedented volatility in international fuel markets, rising freight costs and geopolitical uncertainty were behind the increases.

On Viti Levu, diesel has jumped from $3.82 to $4.58 a litre, an increase of 76 cents, while motorists outside the three-kilometre public road zone will pay $4.63 a litre, up 77 cents. In Vanua Levu and Ovalau, diesel has risen by 77 cents to as much as $4.65 a litre, while Rotuma records the highest increase of 80 cents, taking diesel to $5.21 a litre.

Petrol prices have also surged by around 80 cents a litre nationwide, pushing the cost of motor spirit to between $3.93 and $4.54 a litre depending on location.

FCCC said fuel prices had now reached their highest recorded levels despite efforts to cushion the impact on vulnerable consumers.

“Even with these measures in place, global market conditions continue to push prices upward. As a result, fuel prices in Fiji have now reached their highest recorded levels, driven by sustained increases in international refined fuel prices, freight costs and exchange rate movements.”

The commission said it deliberately moderated increases for products heavily relied upon by maritime users, outer-island communities and low-income households.

Kerosene rose by only 14 to 15 cents a litre, while premix increased by 29 to 31 cents a litre.

LPG users will also feel the squeeze. A standard 12kg cylinder on Viti Levu and Vanua Levu has increased by $9.02 to $46.60, while a 4.5kg cylinder now costs $17.48, up $3.39.

FCCC attributed the increases to sharp rises in international fuel and LPG prices, freight charges and ongoing supply disruptions linked to geopolitical tensions.

The commission said maintaining a continuous fuel supply remained a national priority despite the challenging global environment.