Taxi drivers and motorists say they are relieved by the slight decrease in petrol prices that came into effect on Monday, even as diesel costs rose for September.

The Ministry of Finance announced the retail price of petrol fell by 2.6 sene per litre, from $3.02 to $2.99. Kerosene also dropped by 2.9 sene per litre, from $2.69 to $2.66. Diesel, however, increased by 4.7 sene per litre, from $3.11 to $3.16. The September fuel prices are based on the July 2025 Mean of Platts Singapore (MOPS) marker prices.

For taxi drivers who fill up their tanks daily, the reduction in petrol costs is welcome news. Ulugia Aniseko Ulugia, 64, of Siusega, who drives with TJ Cabs, told the Samoa Observer that even a small decrease makes a meaningful difference.

“Every little bit counts,” Ulugia said. “When petrol goes down, even by a few sene, it means I can save that money for food or other necessities for my family. We spend so much on fuel every day, so we notice every change.”

His colleague Fa'aaliga Setu, 46, of Vaitele, also from TJ Cabs, agreed that the decrease, though modest, helps taxi drivers manage their expenses.

“It may not look like much, but for us taxi drivers who buy fuel every single day, it makes a difference,” Setu said. “That money can go back to our families, especially now when the cost of living is high.”

Private vehicle owners have also welcomed the decrease. Taisina Kolio of Vaitele-fou said the price adjustment helps families like hers cope with household budgets stretched thin by inflation.

“Everything is expensive now,” she said. “If petrol is even a little cheaper, it helps us use the savings for food and other household needs. These days, we have to make every tala stretch.”

The Ministry of Finance noted that international fuel price trends remain uncertain. Crude oil and refined product prices continue to be influenced by geopolitical tensions in Ukraine and the Middle East. The ministry also cited ongoing concerns about the United States’ new trade policies and their potential impact on global economic growth.

While the changes may appear small, motorists say the savings, however slight, are a step in the right direction for households and families navigating rising living costs.