The Reserve Bank of Fiji has reassured the public that all fuel import payments have been made without interruption, saying the country’s external payment systems remain stable despite ongoing global uncertainty that has strained fuel supplies worldwide.
Governor Ariff Ali told reporters that “to date all import payment obligations including those for fuel, have been met in a timely and orderly manner,” dismissing suggestions that domestic foreign reserve shortfalls were the cause of any local fuel availability problems. He said the Reserve Bank’s payment operations and foreign exchange arrangements have continued to function normally, enabling importers to settle obligations on schedule.
Ali emphasised that disruptions to fuel availability are more often driven by international factors beyond Fiji’s control. “It is also important to recognise that fuel availability is shaped by global factors beyond Fiji’s control. This includes international oil prices, refinery capacity, shipping availability and logistical constraints, which can affect supply regardless of domestic foreign reserve levels,” he said, listing the complex external pressures that can limit shipments or raise costs even when payments can be made.
The governor also warned that higher global costs are already prompting shifts in behaviour across the economy. “In this environment, adjustment across the economy is expected as households, businesses, and policymakers respond to higher global costs, with many already adapting spending patterns and improving efficiency to manage cost pressures and support overall economic resilience,” Ali said, signaling that the central bank expects further domestic responses to pass-through price pressures.
The Reserve Bank said it will keep monitoring developments closely and stands ready to act “in a measured and well-calibrated manner” to maintain confidence and ensure the economy continues to function smoothly. While the bank did not spell out specific contingency measures, the comments underline its role in safeguarding liquidity and stability in foreign exchange markets during periods of external volatility.
The statement comes amid broader concern in the region about fuel markets, where tight global refinery capacity and elevated freight costs have complicated supply chains. For Fiji, where fuel is a critical input for transport, electricity generation and key industries such as tourism and agriculture, even temporary supply squeezes or price spikes can ripple through households and businesses.
By clarifying that payment channels remain operational and that importers have been able to meet obligations, the Reserve Bank sought to narrow the focus onto external market dynamics rather than domestic financial capacity. The central bank’s message aims to reassure consumers and commercial stakeholders that while higher international prices and logistical constraints may affect availability or cost, Fiji’s financial arrangements for securing imports remain intact and under active supervision.