The Government says the country’s fuel supply chain has returned to normal ahead of the Christmas and New Year holiday period, easing weeks of sporadic shortages that frustrated motorists and businesses in November and December.
Chief Executive of Pacific Energy, Mr Stephane Cadel, told Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua that the fuel delivery vessel LCT Media has been repaired and resumed scheduled rotations to Tonga. This, the Government says, will ensure sufficient fuel supplies in Nuku’alofa and Vava’u over the holiday season.
Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua welcomed the confirmation, saying the restoration of supply “is welcomed news leading up to the holiday season” and there should be no need for long queues at petrol stations. He urged Tongans to use fuel resources wisely.
Officials outlined planned fuel rotations, with deliveries scheduled for 28 December in Nuku’alofa and 30 December in Vava’u, and further shipments in mid-January. They cautioned that bad weather could affect these dates.
Tonga faced multiple shortages in recent weeks after supply chain disruptions and maintenance at fuel depots strained availability, prompting long lines at service stations and concern among drivers and small businesses.
Local taxi operators and commuters reported extended waiting times at bowsers, with Pacific Energy temporarily running low on stock while TotalEnergies maintained some supply.
The Government acknowledged efforts by the previous administration to stabilise fuel delivery and said discussions with Pacific Energy will continue in the new year to improve resilience against future supply interruptions.
