Minister for Information, Lynda Tabuya speaking on behalf of the Prime Minister, has assured Fijians that there is currently no fuel shortage in the country, despite rising global tensions.
Tabuya says the ongoing geopolitical situation involving Israel, Iran and the United States is creating uncertainty in global fuel markets.
She highlighted that the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil transit route through which a large portion of the world’s fuel supply passes, remains a major concern.
She says any disruption in this region could significantly impact global fuel supply, and as Fiji depends entirely on imported fuel, the country will feel the effects through rising fuel prices.
While Fiji’s fuel supply remains stable for now, Tabuya stresses that the issue is increasing fuel prices.
She says that fuel companies purchase fuel in advance and global fuel prices have surged rapidly from around $95 to $230 per barrel.
The Minister says this means upcoming fuel shipments will be more expensive, and prices are expected to rise further if the situation worsens.
She further says that fuel supply for May and June remains uncertain.
Tabuya says to manage the situation, the government has activated the Fiji National Fuel Emergency Action Plan, which outlines clear actions based on fuel stock levels.
Tabuya says they are currently in the first phase where fuel stocks are above 50 percent, and Fijians are encouraged to use fuel wisely.
She urges the public to maintain normal purchasing behaviour and avoid panic buying.
These include carpooling, using public transport, reducing unnecessary trips and working from home or holding meetings online where possible.
The Minister says the government ministries are also reducing travel and limiting the use of official vehicles.
She says if fuel levels drop to 40 percent, stricter measures will be introduced, including limiting after-hours travel and possibly reducing work and school weeks to four days, while preparing for fuel rationing.
Tabuya says between 30 to 40 percent, fuel distribution will be controlled more tightly, possible limits on fuel purchases and set days for refuelling and driving.
She says essential services such as hospitals, transport, water, power and emergency services will be given importance.
The Minister says if fuel levels fall below 20 percent, the country will enter an emergency phase where fuel will be reserved only for critical services.
Tabuya says the government operations will be limited and vehicle curfews.
She says we are not at this stage now but we must be prepared and decisions will be guided by fuel level.
The government's next update will be provided after they review the situation next Wednesday.
Tabuya says the government will continue to provide updates through radio, online platforms and television.
She commended Fijians for their responsible behaviour so far and emphasised that this is not a time to panic, but a time to prepare.
