Opposition MP Premila Kumar has warned that the recent fuel price increase will trigger a ripple effect across the economy, placing further pressure on households and businesses.
Ms Kumar said the impact of rising fuel costs would extend far beyond the pump.
“The recent increase in fuel prices is not just another adjustment — it is the start of a ripple effect that will be felt across the entire economy,” she said.
“When fuel goes up, everything goes up.”
She said transport operators were likely to push for fare increases, while businesses would pass on higher costs to consumers.
“Bus and taxi operators will now push for fare increases. Businesses will raise prices to cover higher transport and production costs,” Ms Kumar said.
“Tourism, airlines, and essential services will all feel the strain. And in the end, it is ordinary Fijians… who will carry the burden.”
Ms Kumar described the situation as a “cascading effect” that would worsen without intervention.
“Government cannot afford to sit back and simply pass on global price increases to consumers. There must be immediate relief,” she said.
She called for urgent measures, including a review of fuel taxes to ease the burden on consumers.
“The most practical and urgent step is to remove or reduce fuel tax. This will provide direct relief at the pump and help slow down the chain reaction of price increases across all sectors,” she said.
Ms Kumar also urged Government to cut unnecessary spending and prioritise essential services.
“If no action is taken, this cycle of rising costs will continue unchecked,” she said.
“The question is simple: will Government act now to protect its people, or allow this ripple to become a wave?”
