AGP Executive Report

Climate & Diplomacy: Australia’s A$20m bill to host a major UN climate pre-summit in Fiji (COP31 in Nadi) has triggered a political fight in Canberra, with the Opposition arguing taxpayers shouldn’t fund it amid cost-of-living pressure. Border Security: Fiji Revenue and Customs has opened new CCTV capability at Nadi International Airport, backed by Australia’s Vuvale Partnership Programme, to strengthen threat detection and coordination against transnational crime. Weather & Risk: A Heavy Rain Alert remains for Viti Levu and parts of the west, with warnings of flash flooding, wet roads and reduced visibility affecting businesses and travel. Agri-Business & Jobs: Food Processors Fiji commissioned a $635,000 processing centre in Batiri (Dreketi), aiming to cut spoilage, add value locally and expand farmer supply in Vanua Levu. Education & Community Safety: Sawani Village School’s $25,000 fundraising targets an ECE footpath and teacher quarters, while Fiji also opened its first structured residential drug recovery centre for teenage boys in Lautoka. Governance & Compliance: Fiji’s security law review is considering tighter drone monitoring and compliance, as well as how CCTV footage is handled amid privacy concerns.

Agro-processing boost: Food Processors Fiji has commissioned a $635,000 Batiri processing centre in Dreketi, aiming to cut spoilage and strengthen Vanua Levu’s supply chain by buying more locally grown vegetables and root crops for processing and export. Labour and pay dispute: Energy Fiji says CETWUF’s push over 2024–2025 claims is out of step with a June 11 Arbitration Court ruling that keeps a 2023 wage agreement in force until 2026, urging the union to focus only on outstanding issues. Skills and funding pressure: Pacific Polytech warns a sharp drop in its Government grant from about $7m to $500,000 threatens staffing, campus sustainability and Fiji’s ability to train trades locally. Border security upgrade: Fiji and Australia have opened new CCTV capability at Nadi airport to improve detection and response to transnational crime. Regulation spotlight: Fiji is reviewing the Security Industry Act, including tighter monitoring of drones and compliance for private security firms, with privacy concerns raised. Public health and safety: A heavy rain alert remains in force, with flash-flood and hazardous-road risks for business areas and communities. Local business and infrastructure: Fiji Meat’s Nakasi abattoir relocation is restricted, after public complaints about persistent odour near schools. Youth recovery: Fiji opened its first structured residential drug recovery centre for teenage boys in Lautoka, with a 12-week programme and follow-up support focus.

Maritime Security Boost: The US handed Fiji three new seven-metre rigid-hull inflatable boats and a ramp to strengthen operations against drug trafficking, illegal fishing and improve search-and-rescue capacity. Private Security & Drones: Fiji’s Law Reform Commissioner says every drone should be monitored and registered under aviation rules, as consultations review the Security Industry Act and consider tighter compliance for drone and CCTV providers. Youth Drug Recovery: Fiji opened its first structured residential drug recovery centre for teenage boys in Lautoka, offering a 12-week programme and stressing family and community support after treatment. Mahogany Value Push: Fiji Hardwood Corporation says it’s targeting higher-value U.S. niche markets for mahogany, including guitar components and high-end furniture, to lift returns beyond raw timber. Digital Sovereignty: FNU’s National IT conference will focus on “From Vanua to Virtual,” with speakers urging Pacific control over digital systems to protect identity and reduce harmful online impacts. Climate Adaptation: A new focus on managed retreat highlights Fiji’s Vunidogoloa as governments increasingly fund large-scale relocations when sea and erosion make staying unsafe. Energy Transition Watch: Energy Fiji Limited admits it must ramp up solar capability to stay on track for 90% renewables by 2036, with skills and internal capacity a key gap. Elections & Governance: Fiji Electoral Commission observers joined Cook Islands election monitoring, including meetings with the chamber of commerce on how stability supports private sector growth.

Super Deans Rugby: Queen Victoria School booked the U14 final against Ratu Navula after beating MGM 22-15, while Ratu Navula edged RKS 26-25; semi-final action also includes U18 clashes (Suva Grammar vs Ra High at 3pm, Lelean vs Nasinu at 3.40pm) with Fiji Police stepping up presence and live coverage on VITI+. Maritime security: The US handed Fiji three new seven-metre rigid-hull inflatable boats and a ramp to boost operations against drug trafficking, illegal fishing and improve search-and-rescue capability. Tourism workforce: Tourism Minister Viliame Gavoka says Fiji needs at least 100,000 hospitality workers to meet demand, urging graduates to build careers locally rather than becoming “the cheapest pair of hands” overseas. Energy transition: Energy Fiji Limited admits it must ramp up solar capability to stay on track for 90% renewables by 2036, saying it needs new skills and competencies by 2029. Business & finance: BSP says investor confidence is strengthening as it expands digital banking across Fiji and the Pacific. Local economy pressures: Labasa taxi operators oppose the return to lower fares from September 1, warning it will worsen financial struggles amid high costs and illegal pirate taxis. Governance & courts: Fiji’s High Court questioned whether a Magistrate knew of a permanent stay order when police re-seized devices from journalist Charlie Charters. Entrepreneurship push: The RBF-backed Fiji Innovation Hub aims to unlock entrepreneurial potential by connecting founders with mentors, investors, training and networks.

Maritime security boost: The US handed Fiji three new seven-metre rigid-hull inflatable boats and a ramp to strengthen operations against drug trafficking, illegal fishing, and other threats, with Defence Minister Pio Tikoduadua saying the smaller craft will give the navy more flexibility close to shore. Tourism workforce pressure: Deputy PM Viliame Gavoka says Fiji needs at least 100,000 hospitality workers to meet visitor demand, urging locals to build careers in Fiji rather than being “the cheapest pair of hands” for overseas resorts. Renewables reality check: Energy Fiji Limited admits it must ramp up renewable efforts—especially solar skills—by 15% by 2029 to stay on track for 90% renewables by 2036. Innovation push for entrepreneurs: The Reserve Bank of Fiji launched a Fiji Innovation Hub to help founders access mentors, investors, training and networks, aiming to widen Fiji’s economy beyond a narrow base. Labasa taxi fare fight: Taxi operators oppose FCCC’s plan to revert fares from September 1, saying the temporary increase was needed to cover costs and illegal competition. Public safety and crime: Residents in Cunningham, opposite the community post, report repeated thefts and robberies and say police follow-up has been limited. Regional unity under strain: Ahead of Palau’s Pacific Islands Forum leaders meeting, ministers failed to agree on a joint response to China’s missile test, underlining growing divisions. Health emergency: Fiji’s HIV outbreak is flagged as a public health emergency, with experts warning infections could triple by 2030 without stronger prevention and treatment.

Tourism & Labour: Deputy PM Viliame Gavoka says Fiji can’t build a sustainable tourism industry while trained hospitality workers keep leaving overseas for better pay and opportunities, urging a stronger local career pathway. Innovation & Jobs: Reserve Bank of Fiji Governor Ariff Ali backs the Fiji Innovation Hub, saying Fiji must broaden beyond a narrow economic base and help young people become job creators, not just job seekers. Marine Bill Legal Risk: Former AG Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum warns the Commercial Use of Marine Areas Bill could face constitutional challenges and may unsettle hotel investments and lender confidence. Finance Crime Capacity: Parliament’s Economic Affairs committee says delays and poor-quality financial intelligence are weakening police investigations into financial crime, calling for better vetting and faster feedback. Environment Tribunal: Next Generation Holdings’ $1.4b Vuda waste-to-energy appeal continues as it seeks a complete record after some documents were withheld as confidential. Energy Transition: BAT launches its first solar-powered factory in Fiji, cutting fuel reliance and supporting the push for 100% renewable energy by 2050. Energy Security: Fiji and Malaysia explore cooperation on strategic fuel reserves and resilient supply chains amid disruption risks. Electric Mobility: Tappoo Group launches Deepal EVs in Fiji with plans for Suva showroom and after-sales support. Regional Fisheries: Pacific foreign ministers in Suva call for urgent action to protect fisheries, strengthen ocean governance and secure maritime boundaries. Business Links: Fiji-PNG Business Council plans a relaunch and membership drive to deepen trade and investment ties. Sports & Community: Suva targets a must-win Skipper Cup clash vs Nadi; Hibiscus Festival marks 70 years; Rotorua Museum fundraising ramps up ahead of its 2028 reopening.

Fiji–PNG Business: The Fiji-PNG Business Council is set to re-launch next week with a renewed membership drive to deepen private-sector links, investment and trade between Suva and Port Moresby. Energy Security: Fiji and Malaysia discussed strategic fuel reserves and possible offshore stockpiling to protect against supply shocks, while Solomon Islands plans a regional fuel hub aimed at cutting freight costs and boosting energy security across the Pacific. Ocean & Fisheries Policy: Forum foreign ministers in Suva urged urgent action to protect fisheries, strengthen ocean governance and secure maritime boundaries, backing the Vakamanu Regional Pacific Fisheries Strategy 2026–2035. Renewables Push: PM Rabuka urged more private investment in renewable energy and resilience as BAT commissioned a $1.5m solar-powered factory in Fiji. Transport Costs: The Fiji Taxi Association is pushing FCCC to pause the move back to the $1/km distance rate from Oct 1, arguing current costs make the 2011 rate unworkable. Governance & Crime: FRCS is tightening monitoring of unexplained wealth with a new asset declaration framework, while ODPP clarified it has capacity for complex financial and cybercrime prosecutions. Education & Work: Teachers say unpaid salaries are forcing them to buy on credit, and PNG schools are shortening hours due to El Niño—both raising pressure on household finances and learning continuity.

Taxi fares: Fiji Taxi Association wants the FCCC to pause the plan to drop the interim fare adjustment on Sept 30, arguing the $1 per kilometre distance rate set in 2011 no longer matches today’s costs and calling for a cost-of-service review before any permanent change. Cybersecurity governance: IT experts at Fiji’s National IT conference push stronger cybersecurity governance, warning businesses and users are too casual with sensitive data and AI tools without proper controls and training. Solar push: International Solar Alliance chief Ashish Khanna says Fiji could cut heavy diesel spending and boost energy security through solar and storage, including ISA-backed solar power for Beqa nursing stations to keep vaccines cold at night. Tourism risk: Former AG Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum warns the Commercial Use of Marine Areas Bill could unsettle tourism investors and lenders by changing marine area access and foreshore arrangements. Digital economy & jobs: Polar Power reports $7.9m in Pacific revenue since 2024 with repeat orders after telecom deployments, signalling growing demand for solar-hybrid systems. Diplomacy & trade: Fiji reopens its High Commission in Kuala Lumpur, aiming to strengthen energy security, trade, investment and consular support across ASEAN. Money laundering capacity: Fiji Police say manpower shortages are hampering AML and proceeds of crime work, while Parliament criticises weak reporting and system gaps at the FIU. Food safety: Consumer Council of Fiji takes action after a cockroach was found in bread, issuing a non-compliance notice and referring the matter for further action. Sports & youth: Strong crowds back the multi-venue Deans and Raluve format, while Skipper Cup Under-20 Round 3 sets Nadi vs Suva and other key provincial clashes.

Fuel Security & Diplomacy: Fiji is exploring a Malaysia–PETRONAS partnership to strengthen fuel security, including possible inclusion in oil storage and stockpiling arrangements, as global volatility and shipping disruptions threaten supply and prices. Regional Climate Push: Forum foreign ministers backed stronger climate action ahead of COP31, calling for more climate finance, renewable investment and Pacific-led momentum through Pre-COP31 meetings. Breastfeeding as Economic Policy: UNICEF urged Fiji to treat breastfeeding as a national development priority to cut future non-communicable diseases and improve child health, learning and productivity. Financial Crime Readiness: Fiji Police say manpower shortages are hampering Anti-Money Laundering and Proceeds of Crime work, while Parliament is also pressing the Financial Intelligence Unit over weak reporting and missing outcomes from referred cases. Consumer Safety: The Consumer Council of Fiji took action after a cockroach was found in a loaf of bread, issuing a non-compliance notice and referring the matter for further action. Public Safety & Risk: The National Fire Authority warned structural fires are rising, citing a recent Nadi house fire that left a family homeless. Sports & Youth Inclusion: Fiji Secondary Schools Rugby is looking at ways to better include outer-island schools in future Deans and Raluve competitions. Security Sector Reform: Private security guards are calling for legal changes to allow defensive batons and expanded powers as Fiji reviews the Security Industry Act.

RBF & Payments: Bank South Pacific has launched BSP eDollar, Fiji’s first bank-backed electronic wallet, built on the national QR standard to enable interoperable transfers and QR payments across participating banks and mobile wallets. Financial Inclusion: The Reserve Bank of Fiji says women’s use of formal accounts is rising, with women making up 73.7% of active registered mobile money users, but credit access still lags. Anti–Financial Crime: Police told Parliament that gaps in how Fiji Financial Intelligence Unit reports are routed and tracked are slowing investigations, affecting cases linked to money laundering, drugs, fraud, cybercrime, trafficking and corruption; FIU also says terrorist financing is low risk but illicit funds from drugs and organised crime remain a high threat. Education Payments: The Education Ministry has fast-tracked salary arrears for 318 staff after administrative and compliance delays. Climate Talks: Pacific climate leaders say progress at UN climate talks in Azerbaijan is too slow, with key finance items pushed back. El Niño & Water: Fiji warns of possible “drastic measures” as El Niño threatens below-normal rainfall, while Port Moresby prepares for water disruptions. Transport Costs: FCCC confirmed interim taxi fare increases end September 30, with fares reverting from October 1. Sports & Talent: Flying Fijians halfback Sam Wye has signed with Swire Shipping Fijian Drua for 2027, while Fiji’s school rugby semi-finals will run alongside the Fijiana XV Test at Churchill Park. Regional Security: China’s missile test in the Pacific has deepened divisions, with Pacific foreign ministers failing to agree on a joint statement condemning the launch.

Digital Payments Push: Reserve Bank of Fiji says mobile money transactions hit 57 million worth $2.9b last year, while QR payments jumped nearly 700% over five years, as BSP launches Fiji’s first bank-backed electronic wallet, BSP eDollar, built on the national QR standard. Banking Innovation: BSP says eDollar lets users manage up to five wallets, transfer between BSP accounts and wallets, and pay via QR with no consumer fees inside the eDollar ecosystem. Household Pressure: RBF’s 2025 survey shows 33% of households earn less than needed for regular expenses, while Fiji National University warns up to 5,000 students have dropped out and about 10,000 are going hungry due to financial hardship. Education Cashflow: The Education Ministry has fast-tracked overdue salary arrears for 318 staff, with payments scheduled through Pay 17 and Pay 18 after documentation and compliance checks. Security & Drugs: Australia warns a surge in Pacific cocaine trafficking is fuelling China-related security fears, urging a stronger Pacific-led regional security response. Climate Risk: El Niño is tightening water and food supplies, with Fiji warning of possible “drastic measures” if rainfall stays low. Transport Costs: FCCC confirms interim taxi fare increases will end September 30, with fares reverting from October 1. Sports & Talent: Fiji’s Super Deans and Raluve semi-finals get major TV coverage, while Flying Fijians halfback Sam Wye signs with the Fijian Drua for 2027.

Tax & Compliance: FRCS says Fiji could be missing VAT on overseas electronic marketplaces and is pushing an electronic marketplace framework, including work with global vendors, while also tightening transfer pricing checks as it strengthens international tax information sharing. Central Banking & Cash: The Reserve Bank of Fiji has gazetted demonetisation of old flora and fauna banknotes from Jan 1, 2027; businesses won’t have to accept them after Dec 31, 2026, with 72.3% already recalled by July 31. Public Finance & Education: FNU warns scholarship funding pressures could derail thousands of students after TSLS confirmed no new scholarship applications for Semester Two and Quarter Three 2026, and teachers report weeks without pay amid reconciliation efforts. Drug & Financial Crime: RBF Governor Ariff Ali says a reported $2b drug haul doesn’t automatically mean $2b left Fiji, pointing to transshipment networks and “small cuts” rather than large reserve outflows. Business & Services: Westpac Fiji reopens its upgraded Suva branch, while Post Fiji plans a Pacific Mail Hub in Nadi to boost regional mail movement and expand digital parcel services. Trade & Regional Links: Fiji’s High Commission in Kuala Lumpur has reopened to deepen Malaysia/ASEAN ties on energy security, trade, investment and education. US Visa Rules: The US makes permanent a refundable visa bond for PNG, Fiji, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu travellers applying for B-1/B-2 visas. Sugar Industry: Government plans a multi-year restructure of Fiji’s sugar industry, targeting better yields and mill efficiency, with a broader revival strategy expected by year-end. Sports & Youth: Vodafone Deans and Weet-Bix Raluve semi-finals run across Lautoka and Suva, with multiple age-grade clashes plus the Fijiana XV vs Springbok Women Test in Suva.

Pacific Aid & Diplomacy: Australia will keep its 2026-27 aid at $5.2b, with more than three-quarters directed to the Pacific and Southeast Asia, as Canberra argues it remains a reliable partner despite tighter budgets. Visa & Mobility: Fiji’s push for easier travel to Australia under the Vuvale Union is gaining traction, with plans to extend visitor stays, expand multi-entry business visas up to five years, and simplify applications for people who’ve held an Australian visa before. US Visa Bond: The US makes its refundable US$20,000 visa bond permanent for B-1/B-2 travellers from Fiji and other Pacific Forum states, aiming to curb overstays while stressing it’s not a blanket travel ban. Tax & Compliance: Fiji Revenue and Customs Service faces questions over digitisation spending and is also tightening transfer pricing checks as it ramps up international tax information sharing. Fiji Business & Trade: Post Fiji plans a Pacific Mail Hub in Nadi to route mail across Pacific countries, add parcel tracking and lockers, and move beyond declining conventional mail. Sugar Industry Reform: Government outlines a multi-year restructure of the sugar sector, citing aging factories and mill efficiency issues, with a broader revival strategy due by year-end. Fisheries Strategy: FFA and SPC present outcomes from fisheries ministers, including the Vakamanu 2026-2035 regional fisheries and aquaculture framework. Transport Costs: FCCC says interim bus fares end Aug 31, with revised Taveuni fares from Sept 1 and Viti Levu/Vanua Levu reverting to Stage fares under a 10% subsidy. Security & Ports: Fiji Ports says alleged kava theft points to security risks within port boundaries, with talks underway for a dedicated police office and shared CCTV viewing. Community & Growth: Navua Hospital fundraising tops $100k for an Emergency Department upgrade, while Raju’s Restaurant opens a Lautoka branch with an $85k investment.

FRCS Digitisation Under Scrutiny: Fiji’s Revenue and Customs Service faces questions at a parliamentary review after spending on IT and digital systems reportedly fell sharply, raising concerns about cybersecurity and software maintenance. Border Enforcement Coordination: Lawmakers also flagged a case where a tax debtor left Fiji despite a Departure Prohibition Order, prompting calls to tighten FRCS–Immigration coordination. Visa Equality Push: Tui Nayau Ratu Tevita Mara renewed calls for visa-free travel for Fijians to Australia and earlier access to domestic university fees under the expanded Vuvale Union. Minimum Wage Debate: PM Sitiveni Rabuka said lifting the minimum wage from $5 to $8 an hour is “unsustainable” amid economic pressures, while unions push for a living wage. Healthcare Funding: Navua Hospital’s community fundraiser topped $100,000, with a major equipment donation from New Zealand’s Fiji Packers of Gold Club. Business & Economy: Fiji’s top executive forum TOPEX locks in a renewed two-year venue partnership with Sofitel Fiji, while TropicX highlights women’s growing role in architecture and construction. Sports & Tourism: The Fiji Pro returns to Cloudbreak (Aug 25–Sep 4), and the Deans/Raluve semis run across two venues with Fijiana’s second Test vs Springbok Women in Lautoka.

Fiji Pro boost: The Fiji Pro presented by Corona Cero returns to Cloudbreak from Aug 25–Sep 4, with the Nadi Chamber expecting thousands of visitors and a lift for hospitality, transport and retail in the west. Small business push: Vintika’s candle business grew from COVID-era uncertainty, but high import duties on supplies are squeezing prices—she’s urging government to cut duties for small makers. Visa and fees debate: Ratu Tevita Mara calls for visa-free travel for Fijians to Australia and earlier access to domestic university fees, arguing Vuvale should be truly reciprocal. Healthcare fundraising: Navua Hospital’s community drive has topped $100,000, including a $200,000 medical equipment donation, to upgrade the Emergency Department and build a Dignity Hub. Tax and border coordination: FRCS says it collected a record $3.51b net revenue, but a case where a tax debtor left despite a Departure Prohibition Order has raised questions about coordination with Immigration. Minimum wage pressure: PM Rabuka rejects raising the minimum wage from $5 to $8 as “unsustainable” amid fuel and economic strain. Indigenous rights bill: The Rights of Indigenous Peoples Bill is urged to deliver practical outcomes for iTaukei communities, not just formal UNDRIP commitments. Marine protection: The Suzuki Clean Ocean Campaign highlights the need for long-term waste prevention, not just clean-ups.

Minimum Wage Debate: PM Sitiveni Rabuka says lifting Fiji’s minimum wage from $5 to $8 an hour is “unsustainable” amid fuel and broader economic pressures, warning it could push businesses to cut jobs. Healthcare Investment: India’s 100-bed super-specialty hospital tender is moving forward, with shortlisted bidders set to visit Fiji later this month before a planned early-2027 groundbreaking. Disability Support: About 100 people in Tailevu will receive mobility equipment (wheelchairs, walkers and frames) through the Fiji–Western Australia Mobility Devices for Fiji initiative, after shipment delays. Trade & Skills: Fiji Revenue and Customs Service reports net revenue of $3.485b for 2024–25, citing stronger compliance, a tax amnesty and data-led enforcement that has flagged about $45m in extra liabilities. Marine Protection: The Environment Ministry backs the Suzuki Clean Ocean campaign, stressing that clean-ups must be matched with better waste management to curb plastic and marine litter. Business Forum: FCEF has renewed TOPEX’s venue partnership with Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa for 2026–27, aiming to connect private sector, investors and policymakers. Regional Politics: Pacific foreign ministers in Suva failed to agree on a joint statement condemning China’s missile test, with Fiji backing a united Pacific position.