Solomons taxi fares to increase shortly by a dollar amidst rising fuel costs

The current rise in petrol and diesel prices in the Solomon Islands is sure to hit the country hard. Already taxi owners are contemplating increasing fares from SBD$5.00 to SBD$6.00 per kilometer.

A Honiara taxi owner says the cost of running a taxi has increased greatly with the rise in fuel prices. At the moment, a taxi will spend around SBD$80 - SBD$100 a day on fuel to earn around SBD$250 - SBD$350.

This is not economical especially when you put in the spare parts. The parts for vehicles have also increased and therefore the increase from five dollars to six dollars is a must.

"We do not want to over charge the customers but we are forced to put up the rate to meet the increasing cost of running a taxi", said the taxi owner.

It is understood taxi drivers in Honiara, earn 30 cent of every $1 they make. However, they will have to pay for the fuel.

The increase they said is not good for business. Passengers are expected to see the increase in some taxis over the next few days.

Source: Solomon Times