SUVA, April 30 (Xinhua) -- Fijians will face a steep rise in fuel costs starting from Friday, with diesel prices increasing by 32.18 percent under new rates, the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission said Thursday.

Under the new pricing structure, diesel will increase by 93 Fijian cents (about 42 U.S. cents) per liter, while kerosene will go up by 27 to 28 U.S. cents per liter, depending on location. Motor spirit will increase by 9 U.S. cents per liter, and premix by around 10 U.S. cents per liter.

Meanwhile, liquefied petroleum gas prices will also increase from May. The 12-kg cylinder will rise by up to 10 cents, while the 4.5-kg cylinder will increase by up to 4 cents.

The Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission said the increases are driven by a sharp rise in global fuel costs between March and April, including higher refined fuel prices, increased freight charges, and ongoing geopolitical tensions affecting supply chains.

Despite rising costs, the commission emphasized that maintaining a stable fuel supply remains a priority, even if it requires sourcing fuel at higher prices to prevent shortages and support economic stability. ■