The price of petroleum products in Samoa will remain unchanged for the new month effective from 1 November 2022, according to the Minister of Finance.

The Minister of Finance Mulipola Anarosa Ale Molio'o said in a statement released on Monday that there will not be any changes to the maximum retail prices for petrol, diesel and kerosene in Samoa.

"Samoa's ful reserves as at 1st November reflect the same cost of supply as for October hence the carry-over of retail prices," Mulipola said.

"The pricing of crude oil and refined products has been erratic over the last 3 months reflecting uncertainties relating to supply, pushing prices up, then concerns relating to a global recession impacting demand, which pushes prices down."

Therefore, the retail prices from 1–30 November 2022 are as follows: petrol $3.51 per litre, diesel $3.99 per litre and kerosene $3.58 per litre.

The increasing price of petroleum products in recent months has become a concern for a lot of local motorists as well as businesses, who have been forced to pass on the cost to their customers.

However, the decision by the Ministry of Finance (M.O.F.) to maintain the same prices charged last month will provide short-term relief for vehicle owners as well as businesses. 

Data provided by the Ministry shows that the price of unleaded petrol and diesel fuel in Samoa is more cheaper than the rates charged in Australia, New Zealand and Fiji. 

Based on the current rate of SAT$3.51 for a litre unleaded petrol in Samoa, motorists will pay AUD$2.10 (SAT$3.89) in Australia, NZD$2.66 (SAT$4.33) in New Zealand, and FJD$2.95 (SAT$3.77) in Fiji. For a litre of automotive diesel oil (ADO) which will sell for SAT$3.99 in Samoa, motorists will pay AUD$2.43 (SAT$4.50) in Australia, NZD$2.71 (SAT$4.51) in New Zealand, and FJD$3.00 (SAT$3.83) in Fiji.