Freight subsidy eases building costs for maritime communities

The Government is continuing efforts to support maritime communities through its Freight Subsidy Initiative for building materials, aimed at reducing transportation costs to outer islands.

The Ministry of Public Works, Meteorological Services and Transport confirmed that Government Shipping Services vessel MV Vunilagi recently completed its third deployment, delivering essential building materials to Nayau, Lakeba, Oneata and Matuku.

The initiative is helping lower the high cost of transporting materials such as cement, timber and roofing iron to maritime islands.

“With freight costs subsidising, communities are now able to access materials at more affordable prices, making it easier to build homes, community halls, schools and other key infrastructure,” the Government stated.

The programme is expected to expand further, with additional voyages planned in the coming months to reach more maritime communities across Fiji.

“The programme continues to expand with each voyage, reinforcing Government’s commitment to ensuring no island is left behind in development.”