$10m refurbishment brings the Yatu Lau Arcade back to life

The iconic Yatu Lau Arcade in Suva has reopened its doors after a massive $10 million-plus transformation, marking one of the biggest commercial upgrades undertaken by a provincial-owned company in Fiji.

The refurbished arcade was officially opened yesterday by the Na Turaga Bale na Tui Nayau, Sau ni Vanua ko Lau, Ratu Tevita Kapaiwai Uluilakeba Mara, who described the moment as “the fulfilment of a vision that began more than 50 years ago.”

The Yatu Lau Arcade was first built in 1972 by the late Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara, who wanted to create a long-term investment  for the people of Lau.

Over half a century later, that vision has grown into a modern commercial hub with 90 business spaces inside the Yatu Lau Arcade, up from 70 before the renovation.
Eighty-seven spaces are already occupied, with only three still available.

Chairman of Yatu Lau Company Limited, Viliame Leqa, said the redevelopment cost will exceed $11 million once final works are done.
He said $8 million was funded by the company, while another $2 million was borrowed from the Bank of South Pacific.

“Renovating an old structure is not easy. We had no original building plans. Some days it was touch-and-go, but we made it,” Mr Leqa said.

The upgraded mall is designed as a one-stop shop, featuring a new food court, barbershop, dental clinic and a variety of small and medium enterprises.

With Rental spaces range from $2,000 to $3,000.

Ratu Tevita said the reopening symbolises hope and resilience for Fijians and not only Lauan people.

“This arcade is not just for Lau. It is for Fiji,” Ratu Tevita said. 
“We honour the hardships of our ancestors who crossed the seas, and we carry forward the dream they began.”

The new development is expected to strengthen SME growth and create a safer, modern environment for businesses.

“Today we do not just open a building,” the Ratu Tevita added.

“We open new opportunities for families, for young entrepreneurs, and for the next generation of Lauan’s everywhere.”

The Yatu Lau Arcade will be fully operating along with businesses from January to February 2026.