PM Pushes for Affordable Access to Essential Items

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has expressed a strong desire for more affordable access to essential items, particularly medicine, as part of Fiji’s upcoming National Budget.

Speaking on the issue of rising living costs and the tough choices many families face between buying food or essential medicines, Mr Rabuka emphasised the importance of making such necessities more accessible to all Fijians.

“I would like to see us get more affordable access to those essential items. Medicine is part of the sustainable development goals that the world has set itself,” Mr Rabuka said.

He acknowledged the challenges that affected supply chains globally, including the impact of the ongoing wars and the rising cost of shipping, which have contributed to shortages and higher prices.

“The supply chain all over the world has been affected by the wars and the cost of shipping. Everything has been difficult and our stocks have run down, not only in Fiji but the whole world,” Mr Rabuka said.

However, he reassured the public that efforts were being made to address the issue, noting that the Minister for Health and Medical Services had assured him that the supply of essential medicines was gradually increasing.

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