The increase is expected to generate an extra $26 million in revenue, which the interisland barge service says will still leave it operating at a loss next year.

The cost of shipping food and other goods between the Hawaiian Islands is about to rocket up more than 25%, sparking dismay among some residents, farmers and business owners.

On Monday, the Hawaiʻi Public Utilities Commission unanimously approved a rate increase for Young Brothers, the state’s sole neighbor island barge service. As a result, costs on Jan. 1 will climb 25.75% to move essential goods across the state, from vegetables and livestock to vehicles and construction equipment.

The latest hike, which follows a 46% increase that state regulators approved five years ago, could bring some small businesses to a breaking poin

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