Honduras hit by protests over nationwide fuel price hike

Honduras saw protests and road blockades Monday over a new increase in fuel prices that took effect nationwide, with demonstrations reported in Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula, Villanueva and other areas, local media reported.

Protesters blocked streets and highways and burned tires, calling for an end to fuel price increases, according to the local newspaper El Heraldo.

The latest adjustment marks the 11th consecutive week of fuel price increases in Honduras.

In the capital Tegucigalpa, premium gasoline rose by 4.87 lempiras ($0.18) per gallon to 153.17 lempiras ($5.71), while regular gasoline increased by 2.45 lempiras ($0.09) to 135.26 lempiras ($5.04).

The government increased its temporary fuel subsidy from 65% to 70% this week in response to higher international fuel prices. The measure did not prevent further increases for consumers, according to the Secretariat of Energy.

​​​​​​​Protests were reported in several locations, including roads connecting Tegucigalpa with southern and eastern parts of the country

Demonstrators demanded measures to contain fuel prices and criticized the impact of higher costs on transportation and household expenses.

The Honduran Institute of Land Transportation said there was no official call for a national transport strike from representative organizations despite protests and road blockades.

The institute said representatives of the transport sector had confirmed that no suspension of services had been agreed to and expressed their willingness to continue working through dialogue with authorities.

Transport groups have raised concerns over the effect of higher fuel prices on operating costs and requested talks with government officials.

The government has maintained subsidies for some fuel products in an effort to limit the impact on consumers.

Domestic liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) prices remained unchanged under the temporary subsidy, while automotive LPG prices also increased.

Authorities have urged protesters and transport operators to maintain dialogue as the latest fuel adjustment takes effect.