FCCC: Consultation process is transparent, not a box-ticking exercise

The Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) has expressed disappointment over what it describes as inaccurate reporting surrounding electricity tariff consultations currently taking place in the Northern Division.

In a statement, the FCCC clarified that the consultation sessions are deliberately designed as one-on-one engagements, allowing individuals a direct and personal opportunity to share their views on the proposed tariff changes.

The commission said claims suggesting that “proper consultations” are not being held are false.

FCCC teams are currently on the ground in major towns and cities in the Northern and Western divisions, with consultations in the Central Division scheduled for next week as part of efforts to take the process directly to the people.

“This is not a box-ticking exercise,” FCCC chief executive officer, Senikavika Jiuta said.

“We are conducting face-to-face consultations where we meet directly with members of the public to explicitly ask for their feedback. We are actively recording views and concerns regarding the tariff submissions on the ground.”

Ms Jiuta added that she will personally attend the Nadi consultation session at the FNPF Plaza from 10am to 3pm, inviting members of the public to speak with her directly.

While consultations were taking place in the North, the FCCC also confirmed it has begun high-level engagement with key organisations. Letters have already been sent to major stakeholders, including the Fiji Commerce & Employers Federation, the Fiji Chamber of Commerce, SME associations, consumer groups and non-government organisations.

These stakeholders have been invited to provide written submissions and take part in dedicated roundtable discussions.

The FCCC said "it remains committed to ensuring everyone, from individual households to large organisations has access to platforms to understand the impact of the proposed tariff and provide meaningful feedback".

The commission also clarified that the tariff submission was made by Energy Fiji Limited (EFL), not the FCCC. As such, EFL representatives are present at consultation venues to answer technical questions, while FCCC officers explain the regulatory process and formally record public feedback.

A 21-day consultation window has been established for all interested parties. To help consumers better understand how the proposal could affect them, the FCCC has introduced a Bill Calculator tool, allowing customers to input their electricity usage and see the potential impact on their bills.

The FCCC has urged media organisations to report fairly and accurately, noting that misinformation risks discouraging public participation in an important national process.

How the public can participate:

• Online survey and Bill Calculator: via FCCC platforms
• Email submissions: energy@fccc.gov.fj
• In-person consultations at designated venues nationwide