Fiji’s old banknotes demonetised from January 1, 2027

Businesses will no longer be obliged to accept Fiji’s old-design flora and fauna banknotes from January 1, 2027, following their demonetisation by the Reserve Bank of Fiji (RBF).

The RBF said the notes had been gazetted for demonetisation after new polymer banknotes entered circulation on January 2, 2026.

This means December 31, 2026, will be the last day businesses are obliged to accept the old banknotes as payment for goods and services.

After that date, members of the public who still hold the old notes will only be able to obtain their value from the RBF.

RBF Governor Ariff Ali said 72.3 per cent of the old banknotes in circulation had been recalled as of July 31, 2026.

Mr Ali acknowledged the public’s support in facilitating what the RBF described as a smooth and gradual transition to the new polymer banknotes.

He said recalling old banknotes was an essential process for central banks to avoid public confusion, maintain banknote quality and mitigate counterfeiting.

The RBF reminded the public that after December 31, 2026, it would be the only institution that would give value for the old banknotes.