Prices for kerosene, motor spirit, and diesel are set to decline, while gas prices will experience an increase starting today. On Viti Levu, kerosene will be priced at $1.69 per litre, motor spirit at $2.44 per litre, premix at $2.28 per litre, and diesel at $2.18 per litre. In contrast, on Vanua Levu, kerosene will cost $1.76 per litre, motor spirit $2.49 per litre, premix $2.37 per litre, and diesel $2.19 per litre.
Meanwhile, the price of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) has risen. A 4.5kg cylinder will now sell for $14.04, reflecting a 48-cent increase, and a 12kg cylinder will cost $37.45, which is an increase of $1.28. Variability in prices has also been noted for Rotuma, Ovalau, and other outer islands.
The Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) explained that these changes in fuel prices are influenced by fluctuations in the Means of Platts Singapore (MOPS), international freight rates, and foreign exchange rates. The recent adjustments seen in March 2026 were primarily driven by changes in international freight benchmarks for motor spirit, premix, kerosene, and diesel.
The FCCC stated that crude oil prices have shown volatility, particularly in January 2026, largely due to increased geopolitical risks and supply interruptions. Early January witnessed pressures from speculative selling and increases in US gasoline and distillate stocks, followed by a significant rebound in the second week of the month. This turnaround was attributed to escalating tensions in various regions, including Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Latin America, coupled with supply challenges in the Caspian region and a weakening US dollar. However, market gains faced challenges from concerns regarding potential US tariffs on European goods and uncertainties surrounding US-EU trade relations.
These global dynamics have undeniably influenced the adjusting local refined fuel prices in Fiji, effective from March 1, 2026, reflecting the interconnected nature of global oil markets and local economies. This fluctuation in fuel pricing provides consumers a mixture of relief and challenges, highlighting the importance of staying informed about market movements.
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