Rabuka Moves to Protect Fijians as Global Fuel Prices Rise

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has assured Fijians that the country’s fuel supply remains stable, as the Government rolls out a $56 million response to cushion the impact of rising global fuel prices.

The package focuses on four key areas, keeping public transport running, ensuring electricity supply, supporting vulnerable families, and protecting farmers — as part of a broader effort to stabilise the economy during ongoing global uncertainty.

The Coalition Government has allocated $4 million to support bus operators, including absorbing an additional 10 per cent fare increase and providing a fuel rebate of 20 cents per litre for four months.

This is aimed at ensuring that public transport remains affordable and accessible for ordinary Fijians.

To safeguard the electricity supply, the Government will provide fuel rebates to Energy Fiji Limited, including 20 cents per litre on diesel and 12 cents per litre on heavy fuel oil, helping maintain stable power generation across the country.

A temporary 50 per cent top-up will be provided to all social welfare recipients for three months, offering immediate relief to vulnerable households facing rising costs of living.

A total of $28 million has been allocated for a sugar cane price top-up for the 2025 crop season, aimed at stabilising incomes and supporting one of Fiji’s key sectors.

Rabuka said the measures are being funded through the redeployment of existing budget resources, with no new borrowing required.

“Government is tightening its own belt first,” he said.

The Prime Minister emphasised that Fiji is not facing a fuel shortage, but a global price crisis driven by international conflict, supply disruptions, and rising costs in global markets.

As of April 19, Fiji holds approximately 45 million litres of fuel in stock, with a further 22 million litres expected before the end of the month, keeping supply levels within normal operating ranges.

“Fuel is available. Government is acting. And Fiji is prepared,” Rabuka said.

He urged Fijians to play their part by using fuel wisely, including carpooling, using public transport, reducing unnecessary travel, and conserving electricity.

Government continues to monitor the situation closely and stands ready to take further action if global conditions worsen.