Energy Fiji Limited has asked the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission for an emergency fuel surcharge as international fuel prices climb, a move that could push up household electricity and transport costs if approved. The commission confirmed it has received EFL’s submission and is reviewing the request; no decision has been made. Regulators say any adjustment will weigh the need to protect consumers against the requirement to keep electricity services financially sustainable.
The surge in international prices has already been felt on supermarket shelves, with shoppers reporting steady rises in staples such as eggs, rice, tea, canned goods and vegetables. Many households are switching to cheaper brands or trimming items at the checkout, and parents are digging deeper to cover school and event-related costs. Retailers and transport operators warn these pressures will intensify if energy-related charges rise further.
The Suva Retailers Association told officials that the global fuel crisis is increasing import and operating costs for businesses, a squeeze that is likely to be passed on to consumers. Supply-chain pressures and more expensive consignments from Fiji’s major trading partners are contributing to higher landed costs. The Fijian Roads Authority echoed that warning, advising shoppers to expect additional price rises in the coming weeks as higher-cost stock arrives.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced a package of measures to soften the blow on households and critical services while the government monitors the situation. Announcements include direct relief to bus operators aimed at keeping fares stable, diesel subsidies for EFL to help maintain uninterrupted power, and expanded welfare assistance for vulnerable groups. The government says fuel stocks remain above 50 percent and that shipments have been secured to ensure continuity of supply.
Alongside targeted support, the Coalition Government is pursuing internal cost savings. Measures unveiled include a proposed 20 percent pay cut for ministers, assistant ministers and MPs, restrictions on overseas travel, a hiring freeze on new civil-service positions, limits on government vehicle use, suspension of overtime payments and a pause on new capital projects without signed contracts. Officials are also considering a possible reduction in Fiji National Provident Fund contributions as part of broader relief options.
Finance Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad has previously cautioned there is no quick fix to the surging cost of living and has urged households to manage expectations as global inflationary pressures persist. Regulators and the government stress that fuel pricing in Fiji is set independently by the commission and that any adjustments — to electricity tariffs or pump prices — will be assessed in light of both external market movements and the likely impact on households and businesses.
For now, shoppers and businesses must weigh rising grocery bills and transport costs while awaiting the FCCC’s verdict on EFL’s surcharge request and the outcome of the government’s relief and austerity measures. The coming weeks will be watched closely for any formal approvals that could change the cost trajectory for electricity, fuel and everyday goods across Fiji.