Taxi passengers will pay slightly more for their trips from next month following the approval of a temporary fare adjustment by the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC).

Effective from July 1, 2026, the distance-based fare component for general taxis will rise from 10 cents to 14 cents per 100 metres travelled. However, the flag fall charge and waiting time rates will remain unchanged.

The FCCC said the temporary measure is aimed at helping taxi operators manage mounting fuel costs linked to recent increases in global oil prices. The rise in fuel prices has been driven by ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, affecting countries such as Fiji that rely heavily on imported fuel.

Following an independent review of operating costs within the industry, the Commission concluded that an adjustment to the distance-based fare component was necessary to support the continued operation of taxi services across the country.

FCCC Chief Executive Officer Senikavika Jiuta said taxis remain a vital part of Fiji’s transport network, providing essential services and income for many families.

She noted that the Commission had received reports indicating some operators were considering scaling back services or temporarily suspending operations because of rising fuel expenses, prompting the need for intervention.

According to Jiuta, the adjustment reflects only the additional costs directly associated with fuel price increases and was designed to strike a balance between maintaining service availability and protecting consumers.

The Commission has stressed that the fare increase is temporary and will remain under review. FCCC said it will continue monitoring fuel prices and industry conditions and may reassess the adjustment if global fuel markets stabilise or prices decline.