A steep fuel price hike by Chile's government, taking effect on Thursday, has tested the public support that propelled President Jose Antonio Kast into office. The government's public finances are under financial strain, leading to an abrupt adjustment at gas stations across the country. The hike increases the price of 93-octane gasoline by about 30% and diesel by 60%. A survey by Cadem showed Kast's approval dipping four points to 47%, with 59% believing the hike could have been avoided. The Finance Minister Jorge Quiroz said future price changes will be gradual and any drop in crude prices will be quickly passed through. To mitigate the impact, the government announced measures including freezing public transport fares through December to offset the shock.