Tonga's petroleum prices for mid-July to mid-August will increase significantly compared to June, continuing a trend of rising petroleum prices since April.

Tonga's Ministry of Commerce, Tourism & Labour approved an increased price for petrol by 9.60 seniti from $2.75 to $2.85 seniti per litre. Retail prices for diesel increased by 8.11 seniti from $2.80 to $2.88 seniti per litre. Retail prices for Kerosene increased by 6.45 seniti from $2.16 to $2.22.

The reason for price increase included unexpected refinery shutdowns in gasoline prices, tensions in the Middle East and a weakening Pa‘anga.

The Ministry of Commerce, Tourism & Labour stated that it expected prices to continue increasing. Crude oil prices are expected to increase in the second half of this year because of demands from developing countries, the growing use of air conditioning and increased manufacturing activity.