Budget shows discipline but misses key priorities, says business consultant

A business consultant, Sandeep Narayan, has endorsed the Government’s fiscally restrained 2026–2027 National Budget, but says it falls short on addressing pressing cost-of-living pressures and emerging social challenges.

Mr Narayan argued that while the budget reflects fiscal discipline, it failed to respond adequately to key economic realities facing ordinary citizens, particularly the absence of any increase to the national minimum wage and the lack of targeted support for drug rehabilitation services.

He said the approach suggested caution over urgency at a time when households are under increasing financial strain.

“These entities should become financially sustainable and contribute positively to Government revenue where possible,” he said.

Mr Narayan stressed that the budget could not be viewed as a politically motivated pre-election “lollypop” package designed to secure short-term popularity through excessive spending.

“While many people may be disappointed that it does not provide greater immediate relief, I acknowledge the minister for presenting what appears to be a fiscally restrained budget rather than one driven by short-term political considerations.”

He said Fiji must continue to advocate for responsible economic management while ensuring future budgets place greater emphasis on creating jobs, improving living standards, supporting farmers and businesses, strengthening rural communities, and investing in the future of every Fijian.

“Our focus must always be on building a stronger economy that delivers opportunities and prosperity for all,” he said.

However, he said the budget largely maintained existing policies rather than introducing significant new initiatives.

“Many of the targeted measures appear to be designed to address the ongoing impact of higher fuel costs and inflation, rather than delivering broad new incentives to stimulate economic growth,” Mr Narayan said.

Mr Narayan also said one of the most significant omissions was the failure to raise the national minimum wage, despite ongoing pressure from rising living costs.

“While the Government has indicated that further reviews are required, I believe sufficient time has already been available to assess this issue before the budget,” he said.

“Many workers in the private sector continue to face rising living costs, and they deserve meaningful wage improvements.”

He also criticised the absence of targeted support for drug rehabilitation organisations, warning that addiction is becoming an increasingly serious social crisis requiring stronger policy intervention.

“I also hoped to see tax exemptions or additional incentives for rehabilitation centres and organisations working to combat drug abuse,” Mr Narayan said.

“Drug addiction is becoming a growing social challenge, and organisations providing rehabilitation and prevention services deserve greater support.”