Taveuni residents want Government to reduce or control the high cost of fuel and food on the island.

Businessman Prakash Sami said this was a major factor affecting business operations on the island and burning holes in the pockets of many.

“We have made this known over the past months with the increasing fuel prices as we pay extra 35 cents compared to Vanua Levu and Viti Levu and we hope Government could help out with this issue,” he said.

“The price of fuel and food are quite high in Taveuni and we hope policies are put in place to control the price.

“The shipping company only does a weekly service now and that means limited supply of food stock and products for shops so we have to manage this well to last until the next shipment.”

Mr Sami said this had created a difficult situation for the residents, especially the business community.

“It’s not easy paying more for fuel and price of food but we hope something is done about it so it can be fair.”