There will be a new import duty of 20% per kilogram of rice and a good tax of 5%, which comes into effect on September 1.

Combined the new tax rates will mean consumers will pay an additional $11.75 for rice.

The new price for 20kg of white rice will be $166.75, while 10kg will increase to $93.75.

Being a key staple for Solomon Islanders the new tax rates will affect their disposable income - already stretched as it is.