Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation is excited about the reduced curfew hours, saying it brought a win-win situation for employees and employers.

Federation chief executive officer, Kameli Batiweti, yesterday thanked the Government for scaling back to 8pm the new curfew starting time.

“Such a great decision brings with it great relief for the positive impact it will have on the business community,” he said.

“Businesses can now extend opening hours to at least 5pm, and still allow people three hours to do their shopping before they get home.

“This is saving lives, and takes care of productivity.

“The previous curfew hours affected productivity.”

Mr Batiweti cautioned the private sector to take extra precaution under the extended opening hours.

“Even after we have received our 80 per cent national vaccination target, we must still uphold the COVID-19 protocols,” he said.

“This is a new normal.

“Employers must strengthen mitigating measures when looking after their people.”

Feedback: frederica.elbourne@fijisun.com.fj