FCEF calls for clear fuel crisis messaging, inconsistent signals hurting businesses

The Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation (FCEF) is calling on Government to clearly communicate its plans and messaging on the fuel crisis, saying inconsistent signals are undermining business confidence.

“The assurance that we have adequate fuel for 90 days and that there will be no price hike and then the overnight announcement of price increases of four products is not generating confidence within the private sector,” said FCEF chief executive officer Mr Edward Bernard.

He said in times of crisis it was imperative that clear and precise plans and messaging reached businesses and the public.

Business continuity depends on advanced planning and robust contingency measures to manage disruptions.

“An overnight increase of up to 35% for diesel and 20% for petrol impacts heavily on business planning, and will have a direct impact on goods and services. While most businesses have a business continuity plan, understanding our government’s plan of action and have this clearly communicated is imperative,” said Eldon Eastgate, General Manager Pacific Islands at Essity Australasia (Fiji) Ltd and FCEF president.

FCEF said clear plans and consistent messaging must be communicated in a timely manner.

“The private sector acknowledges Government constraints, and recognises that this is a global crisis - which will translate to an increase in the cost of doing business. However, Government must ensure that our alignment to ensuring the ease of doing business is maintained – this requires clear and precise planning, and messaging,” Mr Bernard said.

The federation welcomed the recent appointment of a Fuel Controller, a Fuel Advisory Committee and a Cabinet Sub-Committee on Fuel.

It said businesses and the public were looking forward to details of national plans to support business sustainability, ensure continued service delivery and protect jobs.

FCEF has also written to the Fuel Controller, stressing the importance of including private sector input in drafting regulations to support contingency measures, including fuel allocation priorities.

The organisation has advised businesses to activate their business continuity plans.