No major surprises in Budget, says bus operators

The Fiji Bus Operators Association says there are no major surprises in the 2026–2027 National Budget.

President of the Fiji Bus Operators Association (FBOA), Nisha Shah, said the budget largely continued measures that had already been introduced before the budget announcement.

Responding to the budget, Mr Shah, who also operates KBL Buses, welcomed the extension of Government support, including the diesel duty concession and fare subsidies.

"The bus industry is operating under stable conditions, and we appreciate the timely extension of the subsidy.

"We thank the Government for its support ahead of the budget period. All the measures announced had already been implemented before the national budget.

"The Government introduced the 22.5 percent fare subsidy, in addition to the earlier 10 percent increase, before the budget announcement, providing early relief to the transport sector.

"Duty-free fuel measures were also introduced during the peak of the fuel price crisis, demonstrating the Government's responsiveness to the industry's needs.

"The extension of the subsidy until the end of October provides short-term certainty for operators."

However, Mr Shah said concerns remained over the possibility of future fuel price increases driven by global developments.

"We will continue dialogue with the FCCC and Government authorities regarding any future fuel price increases and the need for additional subsidies if required."

He also said the budget did not introduce significant changes to the pricing of essential goods such as milk, tea and fish, adding that stable prices would support continued business operations.