Government to address high cost of living

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says Government recognises the pressure faced by Fiji from the growing cost of living.

He said his Cabinet had been implementing measures aimed at easing the burden on households.

He said this in Parliament last week during his right of reply to the debate on the President’s Address.

Mr Rabuka said rising global economic challenges including geopolitical conflicts, supply chain disruptions and higher fuel prices continued to affect Fiji’s economy.

He said Government remained focused on ensuring that the benefits of economic recovery reach ordinary citizens.

“We acknowledge that global economic conditions continue to affect the economy worldwide,” Mr Rabuka said.

Support for Households and Businesses

Mr Rabuka said Government supported measures included social protection programmes for vulnerable households, assistance for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), targeted subsidies and rural and maritime development initiatives.

He said these efforts aimed to help families manage the rising cost of everyday living while also supporting economic activity across the country.

Economic Recovery Continues

The Prime Minister noted that Fiji’s economy has shown strong recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic, driven largely by growth in tourism, investment and private sector activity.

“This Government remains focused on ensuring that the benefits of economic recovery reach ordinary households,” he said.

Fiscal Responsibility Remains Priority

Mr Rabuka also addressed concerns raised by Members of Parliament regarding national debt, saying the government will continue pursuing a balanced fiscal strategy.

The Prime Minister said addressing the cost of living will remain a key priority as the government works to ensure that economic recovery translates into real relief and improved living conditions for Fijian households.