Fuel costs hurting businesses, chamber tells

The Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Industry is urging Government to provide fuel relief in the 2026–2027 National Budget, warning that soaring fuel prices are placing increasing pressure on businesses and consumers.

Chamber president Lawrence Kumar said the organisation had already submitted its budget recommendations and hoped fuel-related relief measures would be included when the Minister for Finance delivers the national budget on June 26.

“We are looking for some relief to be provided. Fuel is a major factor affecting businesses,” he said.

Mr Kumar said diesel prices had risen sharply in recent months.

“For instance, the diesel price was $2.14 in March and is now $4.58, an increase of 114 per cent.

“If you look at the data and do the calculations, the increase is 114 per cent. What sort of relief are we providing to businesses and the citizens of Fiji? That is what we are looking for in this budget.

“We are also looking at measures and policies that will help promote businesses.”

Mr Kumar made the comments after attending the State of the Fijian Economy Dialogue in Suva, organised by Dialogue Fiji.

The session featured presentations from Government representatives, non-government organisations and academics.

“The data presented shows we are in a volatile and sensitive economic environment,” he said.

“It is about how the Government can mitigate the economic impacts we are facing.

“We have very little fiscal space right now. The country's debt is increasing, so we need to look at how we can do things better.”

Mr Kumar also called for greater private-sector involvement in driving economic growth.

“There is no better time for the private sector to be involved.

“We cannot continue to rely on a public sector-driven economy for growth. The private sector needs to play a much bigger role.”