Huge increase in fuel prices from todayBy Vijay Narayan 01/04/2026
The effects of the global fuel crisis has started for Fiji as prices of fuel have increased drastically from today.
The price of kerosene which is VAT exempt, has increased from $1.69 to $2.40 a litre.Â
This is a 71 cents increase - a 42.01 percent rise.
From today, the price of unleaded has increased by 49 cents per litre from $2.44 to $2.93.
This is a 20.08 percent increase.
The price of diesel has increased from $2.14 to $2.89 a litre - a 75 cents increase.
This is a 35.05 percent increase.
The price of premix has increased from $2.28 to $2.76 a litre.
There is a slight decrease in the price of cooking gas.
The price of a 4.5kg cylinder of gas has gone down from $14.04 to $14.03.
A 12kg cylinder has gone down from $37.45 to $37.42.
The cylinder price is VAT exempt price.
The prices of fuel and gas will vary outside Viti Levu.
There are no changes to bulk or autogas prices.
The FCCC says it has revised fuel prices for this month, following the latest review of international refined fuel prices, freight rates and exchange rate movements.Â
The price of unleaded and premix is based on the same international refined price and international freight benchmarks, which reflected the increase in the international refined fuel price of unleaded by 41.64 percent together with the strengthened USD currency by 0.39 percent despite the decrease in the international freight rate marker by 6.74 percent.
The price of kerosene and diesel will also increase due to the increase in the international refined fuel price of kerosene by 59.80 percent and increase in the refined price for diesel by 56.22 percent. In addition, the USD currency strengthened by 0.25 percent while the international freight rate marker decreased by 6.74 percent when compared to the last review.
For the April 2026 fuel price assessment, the FCCC says it has implemented measured adjustments to cushion the impact on consumers and businesses.
These measures include the absorption of partial cost increases, close monitoring of freight and supply chain costs and continued regulatory oversight.
The FCCC says at this time, Fiji’s priority remains the continuous availability and sustainability of fuel supply across the country.
The FCCC says in current global environment, securing fuel shipments may require procurement at relatively higher costs.
The FCCC acknowledges that while prices may increase, ensuring that suppliers are able to access, and secure supply is critical to prevent shortages and maintaining economic stability.
Bus operators call for urgent relief after significant fuel price increaseBy Vijay Narayan 01/04/2026
The Fiji Bus Operators Association has formally written to the Minister of Finance and the Minister of Transport requesting urgent intervention to address the significant increase in fuel prices from today.
Acting Association General Secretary, Viren Kewal says the industry is hopeful that the Government will consider measures to assist bus operators in managing this substantial increase in operating costs.
The bus operators say they are deeply concerned about the recent increase in fuel prices, which will have a serious impact on the bus industry.
Kewal says fuel is one of the main operating costs for bus operators, and the continued rise in fuel prices makes it increasingly difficult for operators to maintain normal operations and continue providing reliable service to the travelling public.
He says any government assistance provided to support bus fare adjustments will ultimately be a direct benefit to travelling passengers, as it will help ensure that bus services continue to operate without placing an additional financial burden on the public.
We are awaiting responses from the Prime Minister and the Minister for Finance.
Remove tax and duty from fuel now, why announcement was made at 7.35pm - NathBy Vijay Narayan 01/04/2026
Vijay NathOpposition MP, Vijay Nath has questioned by the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission waited until 7:35pm last night to drop the bomb on the nation regarding the significant fuel price increase.
Nath says we need an emergency bill to remove the 20-cent fuel tax.
He says if the Government truly cares about the struggle of the people, they will strip this duty immediately to blunt this.
The Opposition MP stresses that you cannot tax your way out of a crisis on the backs of the poor and the hardworking.
Nath says just two weeks ago, Minister for Finance, Esrom Immanuel looked at the cameras and promised that prices were locked until May.
He says even Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka gave his word to the people, telling everyone there would be no increase and no need to rush to the service stations.
Nath says last night night, those promises became worthless, and this is a midnight ambush on every family in Fiji.
He adds to release such shocking data with only four hours’ notice is a cowardly way to treat the citizens you serve.
Nath says a 75-cent jump in diesel and a 71-cent hike in kerosene is beyond reckless.
He says it is a direct hit to the pockets of the common man.
The Opposition MP says while the Government sat on this data, the public had no time to prepare.
Nath says our school buses, our farmers, and our market vendors are being crushed tonight.
We have sought responses from the Prime Minister and the Minister for Finance.
They are yet to respond.
Rise in fuel prices to affect taxi operators, drivers, and the people - ShameemBy Priya Nand 01/04/2026
Former Fiji Taxi Association Assistant General Secretary Mohammad Shameem says the rise in fuel prices is going to significantly affect taxi operators, drivers, and the people and economy of the country.
Speaking to fijivillage News, Shameem stresed that rising fuel prices are a very significant factor affecting Fiji as a small nation, warning that the current global geopolitical situation is going to impact taxi operators.
He says the number one factor is the high consumption of fuel for the runs that taxi operators are going to undertake, while the condition of the roads is very poor and operators have not received any fare increase from the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission.
He says there has been no settlement over the past eight to nine months regarding fare increases, which is now seriously affecting operators and drivers who are struggling.
Shameem says it was shocking to see an overnight increase of 49 cents per litre for unleaded fuel, especially after there were indications prices would remain stable.
He says it is very difficult for operators at this point in time and Government, the Ministry for Trade and FCCC should look into the matter as soon as possible.
He adds that if a significant fare increase is introduced now, it will also affect the public at large.
INSERT:Â Shameem on fuel crisis impact 1st Apr
Shameem says the increase in diesel prices will also affect deliveries, shipments and the cost of goods, meaning consumers will ultimately suffer as prices rise, adding that low-income earners will be heavily impacted.
HINDI INSERT: Shameem on price increase 1st Apr
He is calling on the Government to reduce or remove duty on fuel, saying this will make it easier for both the public and transport operators.
He is also calling for temporary free bus services similar to that done in Australia, saying Government should cover the cost to allow people to travel to work and school, easing the burden during the current fuel crisis.
We have sought comments from the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance.
Former Fiji Taxi Association Assistant General Secretary Mohammad Shameem says the rise in fuel prices is going to significantly affect taxi operators, drivers, and the people and economy of the country.
Speaking to fijivillage News, Shameem stresed that rising fuel prices are a very significant factor affecting Fiji as a small nation, warning that the current global geopolitical situation is going to impact taxi operators.
He says the number one factor is the high consumption of fuel for the runs that taxi operators are going to undertake, while the condition of the roads is very poor and operators have not received any fare increase from the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission.
He says there has been no settlement over the past eight to nine months regarding fare increases, which is now seriously affecting operators and drivers who are struggling.
Shameem says it was shocking to see an overnight increase of 49 cents per litre for unleaded fuel, especially after there were indications prices would remain stable.
He says it is very difficult for operators at this point in time and Government, the Ministry for Trade and FCCC should look into the matter as soon as possible.
He adds that if a significant fare increase is introduced now, it will also affect the public at large.
INSERT:Â Shameem on fuel crisis impact 1st Apr
Shameem says the increase in diesel prices will also affect deliveries, shipments and the cost of goods, meaning consumers will ultimately suffer as prices rise, adding that low-income earners will be heavily impacted.
HINDI INSERT: Shameem on price increase 1st Apr
He is calling on the Government to reduce or remove duty on fuel, saying this will make it easier for both the public and transport operators.
He is also calling for temporary free bus services similar to that done in Australia, saying Government should cover the cost to allow people to travel to work and school, easing the burden during the current fuel crisis.
We have sought comments from the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance.
Fuel price rise will have direct impact on prices of goods and services - FCEFCalls made for Govt to clearly communicate its plans on fuel crisis
By Vijay Narayan 01/04/2026
PHOTO CREDITS: FIJI GOVERNMENT FB PAGEThe Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation is calling on the Government to clearly communicate its plans and messaging, in relation to the fuel crisis, and FCEF CEO, Edward Bernard says an overnight increase of up to 35 percent for diesel and 20 percent for petrol, impacts heavily on business planning, and will have a direct impact on goods and services.Â
Bernard says the assurance that we have adequate fuel for 90 days and that there will be no price hike and then the overnight announcement of price increases of four products is not generating confidence within the private sector.
He says in times of crisis, it is imperative that there are clear and precise plans and messaging reaching businesses and the public.Â
Bernard stresses that business continuity depends on advanced planning and robust contingency plans against disruptions.Â
FCEF President and General Manager Pacific Islands at Essity Australasia (Fiji) Ltd, Eldon Eastgate says while most businesses have a business continuity plan, understanding our government's plan of action and have this clearly communicated is imperative.
Eastgate says it is imperative a clear plan and consistent messaging is communicated and at the right time.Â
He says the private sector acknowledges Government constraints, and recognises that this is a global crisis - which will translate to an increase in the cost of doing business.Â
However, he says the Government must ensure that our alignment to ensuring the ease of doing business is maintained, and this requires clear and precise planning, and messaging.
FCEF is grateful for the appointment of a Fuel Controller, a Fuel Advisory Committee and a Cabinet Sub-Committee on Fuel a few weeks ago.Â
FCEF says the business community and public are looking forward to hearing about any national plans that will support business sustainability so that customers can be adequately served and workers can continue to be employed.Â
FCEF has also written to the Fuel Controller indicating the importance of ensuring that the private sector’s contributions is included in the drafting of the regulations to support contingency measures, including the ability to prioritize fuel allocation.Â
FCEF strongly advises all businesses to activate their Business Continuity Plans.
We have sought comments from the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance.
The Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation is calling on the Government to clearly communicate its plans and messaging, in relation to the fuel crisis, and FCEF CEO, Edward Bernard says an overnight increase of up to 35 percent for diesel and 20 percent for petrol, impacts heavily on business planning, and will have a direct impact on goods and services.Â
Bernard says the assurance that we have adequate fuel for 90 days and that there will be no price hike and then the overnight announcement of price increases of four products is not generating confidence within the private sector.
He says in times of crisis, it is imperative that there are clear and precise plans and messaging reaching businesses and the public.Â
Bernard stresses that business continuity depends on advanced planning and robust contingency plans against disruptions.Â
FCEF President and General Manager Pacific Islands at Essity Australasia (Fiji) Ltd, Eldon Eastgate says while most businesses have a business continuity plan, understanding our government's plan of action and have this clearly communicated is imperative.
Eastgate says it is imperative a clear plan and consistent messaging is communicated and at the right time.Â
He says the private sector acknowledges Government constraints, and recognises that this is a global crisis - which will translate to an increase in the cost of doing business.Â
However, he says the Government must ensure that our alignment to ensuring the ease of doing business is maintained, and this requires clear and precise planning, and messaging.
FCEF is grateful for the appointment of a Fuel Controller, a Fuel Advisory Committee and a Cabinet Sub-Committee on Fuel a few weeks ago.Â
FCEF says the business community and public are looking forward to hearing about any national plans that will support business sustainability so that customers can be adequately served and workers can continue to be employed.Â
FCEF has also written to the Fuel Controller indicating the importance of ensuring that the private sector’s contributions is included in the drafting of the regulations to support contingency measures, including the ability to prioritize fuel allocation.Â
FCEF strongly advises all businesses to activate their Business Continuity Plans.
We have sought comments from the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance.
National crisis caused by fuel price increases will not be short term, we need clear action plan - Prof. PrasadBy Vijay Narayan 01/04/2026
We need to act decisively, communicate clearly, understand that the significant increase in fuel prices will have an impact across the board, there could be more fuel prices and we need to have clear action plans in place.
That is the message of the National Federation Party Leader, economist and former Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, as he also says the Opposition should not play politics with this national crisis.
Professor Prasad says this is a crisis that is not created by the Fijian government or some business entities or individuals.Â
He says it is a crisis that is externally driven.
Professor Prasad says even if the war ends tomorrow, there are a number of things that will happen to get the production, and the supply back on track, it is going to take a long time - it will take six months, even a year, depending on what's happening.
He says the demand for energy and fuel is already high and is going to become higher as the crisis unfolds.
The NFP Leader says we also need a very clear communication from the government, and from everyone that wants to talk about this crisis.Â
Professor Prasad says we need to ensure our energy supply is protected, and 50 percent of our energy is from diesel and 50 percent is from hydro.
The economist says we have to also make sure that the fuel companies have the right price incentive, because it's not so much the price itself, it's a supply issue.
He says we need clear contingency plans.
Professor Prasad says we understand the economic impact of fuel price increase is quite extensive, as it affects everything.
He says even if the government reduces VAT to zero on fuel, and remove all the taxes, including the fuel tax of 20 cents per litre on diesel and 46 cents per litre on unleaded, the fuel price will still rise, because externally, the prices will go up.
His advice is not to remove the fuel tax now as the government will lose about $150 million which can be used to provide urgent relief to the most vulnerable in the country.
He adds the government must ensure that public transport is also not affected and look at subsidies for the public transport sector.
Professor Prasad says social welfare relief needs to be assessed, government expenditure priorities need to be assessed based on the situation now, and a clear focus is needed for business continuity and support.
He says all steps should also be taken to ensure there are no job losses.
Govt working on targeted support after fuel price increaseBy Vijay Narayan 01/04/2026
Do not remove fuel tax now as the money can be used to provide urgent relief - Prof. PrasadBy Vijay Narayan 01/04/2026
My advice is not to remove the fuel tax now as the government will lose about $150 million which can be used to provide urgent relief to the most vulnerable in the country after the fuel price increase.Â
That is the message by National Federation Party Leader, economist and former Finance Minister, Professor Biman Prasad who says that there should be urgent contingency plans that need to be communicated to the people.Â
Professor Prasad says even if the government reduces VAT to zero on fuel, and remove all the taxes, including the fuel tax of 20 cents per litre on diesel and 46 cents per litre on unleaded, the fuel price will still rise, because externally, the prices will go up.
He adds the government must urgently ensure that public transport is also not affected and look at subsidies for the public transport sector.
Professor Prasad says social welfare relief needs to be assessed, government expenditure priorities need to be reassessed urgently based on the situation now, and a clear focus is needed for business continuity and support.
He says all steps should also be taken to ensure there are no job losses.
Professor Prasad adds the Opposition should not play politics with this national crisis.
He says this is a crisis that is not created by the Fijian government or some business entities or individuals.Â
He says it is a crisis that is externally driven.
Professor Prasad says even if the war ends tomorrow, there are a number of things that will happen to get the production, and the supply back on track, it is going to take a long time - it will take six months, even a year, depending on what's happening.
The economist also stresses that we need to ensure our energy supply is protected, and 50 percent of our energy is from diesel and 50 percent is from hydro.
He says we have to also make sure that the fuel companies have the right price incentive, because it's not so much the price itself, it's a supply issue.
Professor Prasad says having no fuel will cause a lot of issues, and all the necessary steps have to be taken with a great sense of urgency.
We have sought comments from the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance.
Lau communities urged to use fuel wisely as they brace for rising costs and fuel shortagesBy Temalesi Vono 01/04/2026
Roko Tui Lau Joji KalounivaluPeople in the Lau Group are being urged to use fuel wisely as rising costs and ongoing supply shortages begin to impact daily life across the islands.
Speaking to fijivillage News, Roko Tui Lau Joji Kalounivalu says people have already been feeling the strain in recent weeks due to limited fuel supplies, even before the latest increase in fuel prices.
Kalounivalu says there has been a shortage of 400-litre fuel drums, with many villages unable to secure sufficient supply despite placing orders.
He notes that fuel prices in the islands are higher than in urban centres such as Suva, as additional freight costs are added once fuel is transported from the mainland.
This, he says, is expected to drive up the cost of goods and services, placing further pressure on households.
Kalounivalu says the impact is significant for island communities that rely heavily on fuel for transportation, electricity generation and everyday activities.
He says concerns are growing over essential services, including how children travel to school, with many depending on fibre glass boats that require fuel.
He adds that the issue will be discussed at upcoming Bose ni Tikina meetings, where communities will decide on ways to manage the situation.
There are also concerns that further increases could affect shipping services bringing people and essential supplies from the mainland.
Kalounivalu warns that such a development would place communities in a difficult position.
He is advising residents to plan their daily activities carefully, prioritise essential tasks and reduce fuel use where possible.
People in the Lau Group are being urged to use fuel wisely as rising costs and ongoing supply shortages begin to impact daily life across the islands.
Speaking to fijivillage News, Roko Tui Lau Joji Kalounivalu says people have already been feeling the strain in recent weeks due to limited fuel supplies, even before the latest increase in fuel prices.
Kalounivalu says there has been a shortage of 400-litre fuel drums, with many villages unable to secure sufficient supply despite placing orders.
He notes that fuel prices in the islands are higher than in urban centres such as Suva, as additional freight costs are added once fuel is transported from the mainland.
This, he says, is expected to drive up the cost of goods and services, placing further pressure on households.
Kalounivalu says the impact is significant for island communities that rely heavily on fuel for transportation, electricity generation and everyday activities.
He says concerns are growing over essential services, including how children travel to school, with many depending on fibre glass boats that require fuel.
He adds that the issue will be discussed at upcoming Bose ni Tikina meetings, where communities will decide on ways to manage the situation.
There are also concerns that further increases could affect shipping services bringing people and essential supplies from the mainland.
Kalounivalu warns that such a development would place communities in a difficult position.
He is advising residents to plan their daily activities carefully, prioritise essential tasks and reduce fuel use where possible.
