By Katalina Siasau

Tonga remains in the “green” for fuel supply through the rest of April, with local stock levels stable, while May and June supplies remain uncertain.

Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua said today that any shift to a “yellow” status will depend on further changes in the price of goods.

He told a media briefing at St. George Government Building that, "While some increases have been noted, they are not yet at critical levels, largely due to stable supply and reduced demand," he said.

The PM acknowledged the broader economic effects, particularly on businesses.

“The government is planning to establish programs to assist the private sector, as they are affected and that in turn impacts our economy,” he said.

Looking ahead, the PM flagged uncertainty in the coming months.

“There are concerns for May and June, the situation is not yet clear,” he said.

The government’s priority is ensuring fuel availability, even if prices remain volatile.

“We are prioritising supply over price. Prices will be affected regardless.”

He acknowledged that the conflict in the Middle East is impacting the world, including Tonga.

“We cannot control those situations, and we accept the impacts because we do not have the power to stop those conflicts. We welcome a ceasefire, but the hope is for it to stop entirely.”

He warned that even if global tensions ease, fuel prices may not immediately fall.

The government is now exploring alternative options to help cushion the impact on Tonga.

Tonga generates electricity with diesel. Tonga Power CEO Scott Westbury said, “There’s not much we can do to influence the price of electricity because we are reliant on diesel.”