AGP Executive Report

Fiji Sugar & farming: Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka told cane growers the sugar industry won’t be discarded, with reforms being discussed through a parliamentary committee and no rushed decisions on privatisation. Farmers in Seaqaqa meanwhile warned cane prices and costs are squeezing them, calling for higher returns and faster relief. Climate diplomacy: Fiji says Pre-COP31 preparations are on track, with invitations and logistics being finalised with UNFCCC and partners, and officials stressing the meeting’s goal is advancing negotiations, not headcounts. Regional youth agenda: Pacific youth ministry leaders backed a framework for youth development, investment and accountability from 2027 to 2036, to be strengthened before ministerial talks in December. Business & markets: SPX-listed companies have declared $55m in dividends by July, with trading value and investor sign-ups rising sharply. SME support: The Ministry of Commerce and Business Development wrapped up SIYB training for 20 entrepreneurs, focusing on business planning and financial literacy. Health & insurance: BSP Life says NCDs are threatening Fiji’s future, urging prevention alongside insurance, and it donated $150,000 to the Fiji Wellness Coalition. Kava supply deal: The Calmer Co secured long-term noble kava sourcing beyond Fiji into PNG and Vanuatu to boost supply resilience. Sports (women’s rugby + schools): Fiji Rugby defended staging the Fijiana XV Test against South Africa on the same day as the Deans and Raluve quarter-finals, while schools will field teams in every grade and South Africa named Libbie Janse van Rensburg as captain.

Fiji Sugar Sector: PM Sitiveni Rabuka told Seaqaqa cane farmers that any Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) privatisation won’t be rushed, with decisions coming only after study and consultation, while Sugar Minister Tomasi Tunabuna said cane prices are driven by the global sugar market and Fiji’s guaranteed minimum of $85/tonne is supported by top-ups if world prices fall. Digital Payments for Women Entrepreneurs: Mastercard and partners have launched DUAPAY, a mobile card-acceptance platform for Fiji’s women-led micro and small businesses, built with Fintech Pacific and ygap and piloted with vendors in Suva and Nadi. Investment Leadership: Fiji has appointed Yanki Ukyab as CEO of the Investment Board Nepal (IBN), with prior UNDP Pacific advisory experience including work in Fiji. Business Climate & Costs: Suva retailers warn freight costs, inflation and weaker spending are squeezing margins as container charges rise, pushing businesses to focus on cost control over the next few months. Circular Economy Push: South Pacific Waste Recyclers urged workplaces to separate clean wastepaper and support local recycled products, citing 15+ years of recycling over 15 million kg of paper. PMIBA Sponsorship: FIJI Water renewed its Supreme Award sponsorship for the Prime Minister’s International Business Awards (PMIBA) 2026 for a ninth straight year, backing business excellence and innovation. Skills Pipeline: Pacific Polytech marked graduations of 350+ students, highlighting TVET as a route to jobs at home and abroad.

Mobile payments for women entrepreneurs: Mastercard and partners have launched DUAPAY in Fiji after a 12-month pilot with Westpac, letting eligible women-led micro and small businesses accept card and digital payments on mobile. Sugar industry pressure: A sugarcane farmer has questioned Fiji Sugar Corporation’s spending and called for transparency over finances, while the National Farmers Union warns diversification won’t fix underlying problems and urges more investment in sugar. Retail cost squeeze: Suva retailers say freight costs, inflation and weaker spending are biting, with container charges nearly doubling and businesses bracing for the next two to three months. Circular economy push: South Pacific Waste Recyclers is urging businesses to separate clean paper for free collection, citing 15 million kg recycled over 15 years. Business awards momentum: FIJI Water renews sponsorship of the PMIBA 2026 Supreme Award for a ninth straight year, backing innovation and employment outcomes. Skills pipeline: Pacific Polytech says 350+ graduates are ready for work, with training expected to generate millions in wages. Policy and governance: Deputy PM Manoa Kamikamica returns to Cabinet and dismisses leadership speculation after court clearance; Fiji also continues preparations for the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Palau.

FNPF at 60: Fiji National Provident Fund marks its 60-year milestone, growing from a small 1966 loan to managing $12.1b for 447,000+ members, and says it will keep investing in tech and financial literacy. Tourism investment rules: Fiji’s Tourism Act 2026 replaces outdated laws and aims to give hotel investors clearer governance, sustainability standards and long-term sector direction. Border modernisation: Immigration is rolling out a digital Advance Passenger Information and Passenger Name Records system with SITA to assess travel risks before arrival and speed up processing. Energy and resilience: Fiji Solar Scholars installed a solar PV system at FCOSS in Suva to keep disaster coordination running during outages and cut electricity costs. Sea safety push: Life Flight (Fiji) calls for wider use of emergency locator beacons to shorten search-and-rescue times, after a long Lau sea rescue. Jobs and growth: Centrecom’s expansion highlights Fiji’s growing business process outsourcing sector, now employing 9,000+ people and contributing about F$280m to the economy. Trade and food exports: Pacific Trade Invest Australia brings 15 exporters from eight Pacific economies to Fine Food Australia to connect Fiji and regional producers with buyers. Governance and land rights: The LAMA landowners committee urges transparency and stronger customary landowner protections in the Mining Act review. Regional fisheries funding: The Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency says the US Tuna Treaty delivered US$50.42m in 2026 distributions, supporting tuna management across member states. Leadership update: Manoa Kamikamica is sworn back in as Deputy PM and Commerce/Industries minister after his case was dismissed. Sports with business pull: Fiji’s Fijiana XV prepares for the Springbok Women Tests, while Willie Walker takes charge as head coach ahead of a high-profile weekend at HFC Bank Stadium.

Telecom & Digital Economy: Digicel Fiji CEO Farid Mohammed will step down after 20 years with Digicel Pacific, ending a tenure marked by network modernisation and the “All In” subscriber push. Border Modernisation: Fiji is rolling out an Advance Passenger Information and Passenger Name Records system with SITA to screen travellers before arrival, aiming to speed processing while improving risk checks for tourism and trade. Tourism & Investment: BSP Life says it will invest in three new hotels within six months and is also planning a future ultra-luxury Nacula Island resort by 2029, reinforcing Fiji’s accommodation capacity and jobs. Regional Trade & Exports: Pacific Trade Invest Australia will take 15 Fiji and Pacific food and beverage exporters to Fine Food Australia (31 Aug–3 Sep) to meet buyers and expand market access. Energy & Resilience: Fiji Solar Scholars installed a solar PV system at FCOSS in Suva, giving the civil society disaster-response hub backup power and easing electricity costs. Maritime Safety: Life Flight (Fiji) is urging wider use of emergency locator beacons (EPIRBs/PLBs) to cut search times and improve sea rescue outcomes. Governance & Business Leadership: Manoa Kamikamica has been sworn in as Deputy PM and Commerce/Industries minister after being acquitted, returning to key portfolios tied to investment and enterprise policy. Women in Leadership: MP Premila Kumar calls for an end to “political party gatekeeping” and urges mentoring and candidate support to boost women’s representation. Animal Welfare Fundraising: Animals Fiji will host “Disco for a Cause 2026” in Nadi next month to expand veterinary care and desexing for stray and vulnerable animals.

Women in politics: MP Premila Kumar says family duties and job-security fears are keeping many women out of politics, urging parties to set candidate targets and offer mentoring and financial support. Public health law: University of Fiji vice-chancellor Shaista Shameem tells Parliament the Public Health Amendment Bill should explicitly treat domestic violence and child protection as public health priorities, with prevention and better agency coordination. Climate policy gap: A letter criticises climate strategies for giving too little attention to wood heaters, citing their role in air pollution and climate impacts. Pacific women MPs: Pacific parliamentarians share how temporary measures and party support can boost women’s representation across the region. BSP Life expansion: BSP Life marks 150 years, pledging tech-led service improvements, a $150,000 donation to the Fiji Wellness Coalition, and plans to grow in PNG. FICAC aftermath: PM Rabuka confirms Manoa Kamikamica’s full restoration as DPM and Commerce, Trade and Communications minister after his acquittal. US visa bond rule: The US makes its visa bond programme permanent, with Fiji among listed countries—up to $20,000 refundable for some B1/B2 applicants. Suva sewage disruption: A sewage overflow disrupted Suva businesses and pedestrians after a pump failure, prompting council and Water Authority response. Fuel easing: Fuel price caps ease across parts of the Pacific, including Fiji, though costs remain above pre-crisis levels. Nadi investment: Nadi Chamber backs Damodar Group’s $80m Damodar City, expecting nearly 680 jobs and wider retail and tourism benefits. Debt warning: Opposition leader Inia Seruiratu says Fiji’s rising debt is a security risk, calling for tighter fiscal control and business support. Electricity access: Government commissions Nalawa Stage 2 grid extension in Ra, bringing power to households, a school and a health centre. Digital literacy push: Experts urge stronger digital skills as people still distrust online services and prefer in-person banking. Tourism and sport: Shangri-La Yanuca Island becomes naming rights partner for the Women’s Division of Coral Coast Fiji 7s, while Fiji’s Fijiana XV and Springbok Women gear up for Tests.

US Visa Bonds: The US has made its refundable visa bond programme permanent for B1/B2 applicants from 50 countries, with bonds up to US$20,000 (Fiji included), aiming to improve compliance and reduce overstays. Local Business Disruption: A sewage overflow in Suva’s Cumming Street disrupted shops and pedestrians, with the council cleaning the area while the Water Authority of Fiji traced the cause to a pump failure. Investment & Jobs: Nadi Chamber backs Damodar Group’s $80m Damodar City mixed-use plan, expecting nearly 680 permanent jobs across retail, hospitality, tech and facilities. Digital Skills Push: Vodafone Fiji and NiuPay say digital literacy is lagging, with some people still avoiding online banking due to trust and security concerns. Public Health Governance: University of Fiji warns the Public Health Amendment Bill 2026 lacks a clearly stated purpose, raising constitutional enforcement concerns. Energy Access: Government reaffirms universal electricity access by 2030 after commissioning Nalawa Stage 2 in Ra, extending grid power to households and key services. Sports & Facilities: Fiji Sports Commission says the country needs about $300m to upgrade ageing sporting infrastructure, after netball facility concerns. Political Economy: Opposition leader Inia Seruiratu flags rising debt nearing $12b as a security risk, while launching the People First Party focused on business support and fiscal control. Tourism & Travel: Virgin Australia launches a one-week sale with discounted fares to Fiji and other Pacific destinations.

Public Health Bill Scrutiny: University of Fiji warns the proposed Public Health Amendment Bill 2026 lacks a clearly stated purpose, raising public confusion and constitutional concerns over enforcement powers. Trade Pressure: Reserve Bank of Fiji data shows the trade deficit widened 20.6% to $2.22b in five months to May, driven by higher imports of fuel, machinery, vehicles and manufactured goods, even as tourism arrivals rose. UN Peacekeeping Payments: Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka presses the UN to settle outstanding peacekeeping reimbursements, saying unpaid funds could support health, transport and education. Sustainability & Investment: Finance Minister Esrom Immanuel says Fiji’s development push must be sustainability-led, with smarter planning and digitalising investment processes. Tourism Bottleneck: Fiji faces an accommodation gap of up to 5,000 rooms over five years, pushing more reliance on short-term rentals and ecotourism. Human Trafficking Reporting: Police launch an online FAIR system for the public to report suspected trafficking, warning traffickers increasingly use social media. Workplace & Governance: People First Party officially enters the election race, pitching governance reform and economic recovery. Sports Infrastructure Need: Fiji Sports Commission says $300m is needed to upgrade ageing sporting facilities.

US Visa Bonds: The United States is making its visa bond programme permanent from Aug 3, letting consular officers require refundable deposits of $10,000–$20,000 for B1/B2 applicants from 50 countries, including Fiji—aimed at reducing overstays. Anti-Trafficking Push: Fiji Police launched the FAIR online portal (fair.org.fj) so the public can report suspected human trafficking, warning traffickers increasingly recruit via social media. Tourism Pressure: Fiji faces an accommodation gap of up to 5,000 rooms in five years, with the Ministry pointing to short-term rentals and new investment as key to meeting demand. Sports Funding: Fiji needs about $300m to upgrade ageing sporting facilities, after netball facility concerns were raised by Fiji Pearls. Governance & Courts: Fiji Law Reform Commission seeks public input on proposed updates to High Court Rules 1988 and Magistrates’ Court Rules 1945. Corruption Case: A former school manager was jailed for misusing $3,700 from a Free Education Grant account. Waste & Recycling: Return & Earn opened a new Nakasi collection centre, paying cash for eligible bottles and cans.

US Visa Bonds: The US State Department is making its visa bond programme permanent for applicants from 50 countries, including Fiji, with consular officers able to demand refundable security deposits up to USD 20,000 for B1 (business) and B2 (tourism) visas—aimed at reducing overstays. Fiji Fuel Costs: Fiji’s fuel and LPG prices move again from today, with diesel dropping by up to 47 cents per litre and unleaded also falling, while LPG cylinder prices rise. Court System Reform: The Fiji Law Reform Commission is seeking public submissions on proposed updates to the High Court Rules 1988 and Magistrates’ Court Rules 1945 to modernise civil justice. Tax Scam Alert: FRCS warns of fraudulent Tax Clearance/Tax Compliance Certificates and fake cancellation letters, urging verification through its official online portal. Rural Power: Over 1,000 people in Nalawa, Ra will get electricity via a new grid extension, with government-funded house wiring for 267 households. Business & Governance: The trial of former FBC executives Riyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and Vimlesh Sagar is set to proceed, while a long-running Momi land swap dispute remains unresolved.

Fuel & Cost of Living: Fiji’s regulated fuel prices fall from today, with diesel down 47 cents to $2.92 per litre on Viti Levu, while LPG cylinders rise (4.5kg up 43 cents to $17.60; 12kg up $1.12 to $46.92), as the FCCC cites easing refined fuel prices but volatile global markets. Rural Electrification: Over 1,000 people in Nalawa, Ra will get electricity via the Nalawa Stage 2 grid extension, extending supply from Nasau to Nukuilau and powering homes, a school and a health centre, with government-funded wiring for 267 households. Court & Governance: The Fiji Law Reform Commission is seeking public submissions on proposed updates to High Court and Magistrates’ court rules, while former FBC executives Riyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and Vimlesh Sagar head toward trial on corruption-related charges. Tax Fraud Alert: FRCS warns businesses and the public about fake Tax Clearance/Tax Compliance certificates and fraudulent cancellation letters, urging verification through its official online portal. Business & Investment: Damodar Group unveils an $80m Nadi development expected to create 680+ jobs, and ANZ highlights its long-running Pacific role and investment in regional systems and lending. Sports Funding: Fiji Sports Commission grants $150,840 to the Fiji Pearls for Netball World Cup qualifiers in Tonga.

Sugarcane supply squeeze: Labasa cane farmers say they’re being left to foot the bill to replace ageing, now-unapproved varieties, warning production could drop without government-backed planting material. Population planning: Cabinet has endorsed Fiji’s first National Population Policy (2026–2035) to tackle decline, ageing, migration and labour shortages, with better data driving service and budget decisions. Tax fraud alert: FRCS warns businesses and the public about fake Tax Clearance/Tax Compliance Certificates and bogus cancellation letters, urging verification via its official online portal and warning of serious criminal penalties. Fuel cost shift: Fuel prices fall from Aug 1 (diesel down up to 50 cents/litre), while LPG rises (4.5kg up 43–55 cents; 12kg up $1.12–$1.46). Nadi jobs boost: Damodar Group unveils an $80m Damodar City Nadi mixed-use precinct, targeting 680+ permanent jobs and a new retail/tourism hub. Climate resilience finance: Fiji launches parametric insurance for MSMEs to speed payouts after cyclone/rain triggers, aiming to reduce reliance on slow loss assessments. Connectivity pressure: Fibre expansion across the region faces cost headwinds as cable prices rise, with Fiji pointing to provider collaboration to manage rollout challenges. Digital careers for women: PTC announces exclusive sponsorship of Pacific Women in Telco, expanding a regional platform for youth and women in STEM and digital infrastructure. Rural access upgrade: A $627k Nailawa crossing in Ra improves access for about 1,500 people, supporting farming, schooling and emergency travel.

Fuel & Cost of Living: Fiji’s fuel prices fall from tomorrow (diesel down 47–50 cents/litre; motor spirit down 37–39 cents), but LPG rises (4.5kg up 43–55 cents; 12kg up $1.12–$1.46), reflecting global refined fuel, freight and exchange-rate moves. Inflation Watch: The Reserve Bank of Fiji says June inflation hit 6.1% (from 3.9% in May), driven mainly by fuel/gas and electricity costs, with oil-price risks keeping inflation above 6% through year-end. Jobs & Investment: Damodar Group unveils $80m Damodar City Nadi, a mixed-use precinct expected to create 680+ permanent jobs and boost Nadi’s tourism and 24-hour economy. Banking Access: ANZ Fiji opens a new Lending Centre at Lami Plaza to speed up home and personal lending support with specialist advice and financial wellbeing services. Digital & Telecom: PTC signs exclusive sponsorship of Pacific Women in Telco, backing women and youth in STEM and digital infrastructure; meanwhile, fibre network growth faces pressure from rising cable costs. Business Integrity: FRCS warns of fake Tax Clearance/Tax Compliance certificates and fraudulent cancellation notices, urging businesses to verify via its official portal. Climate Resilience: GEF approves grants totalling NZ$24.2m for Fiji and other Pacific states to strengthen early warning and climate-ready infrastructure. Community & Health: Fiji marks Childhood Cancer Awareness Month with calls for early detection; Fiji also launches a parametric insurance product to help MSMEs recover faster after climate disasters.

Childhood Cancer Awareness: WOWS Kids Fiji marked Childhood Cancer Awareness Month with stories like 7-year-old Jeremiah Tuiraviravi’s, urging parents to seek early diagnosis and noting support gaps such as transport and tutoring for children returning to school. Inflation Watch: Fiji’s inflation hit 6.1% in June, driven mainly by higher fuel and gas prices and electricity costs, with the RBF warning inflation could stay above six percent if oil prices remain elevated. Consumer & Competition Reform: The proposed Competition and Consumer Commission Bill 2026 would strengthen FCCC powers to tackle anti-competitive pricing and expand action on online scams, while fuel pricing reforms still require ministerial sign-off. Climate Resilience Funding: The GEF approved NZ$24.2m for Fiji and Pacific neighbours to plan climate-disaster projects, including early warning systems and flood, cyclone and coastal erosion resilience. Skills Pipeline: Pacific Polytech targets 2,000 trades graduates by December, highlighting TVET demand across construction, agriculture, transport and more. Business & Trade Infrastructure: Work has begun on Tropik Wood Industries’ $35m carriage sawmill project aimed at boosting local timber processing and jobs. Sports Governance Tension (Regional): Samoa faces possible World Rugby suspension after pulling support for Lakapi Samoa, raising uncertainty for its 2027 Rugby World Cup hopes. Elder Abuse Barriers: A Nadi senior citizens meeting heard fear of retaliation is stopping elderly victims from reporting family abuse and from accessing welfare properly.

TVET Pipeline: Pacific Polytech says it will graduate 2,000+ trades students across Fiji by December, with Cohort 6 producing 101 qualified in agriculture and Level 3 trades like automotive, carpentry, electrical and plumbing. Competition & Consumer Reform: Fiji’s proposed FCCC Bill will expand powers to tackle anti-competitive pricing and digital scams, with consultations hearing complaints about big price gaps between towns. Fuel Pricing Governance: FCCC reforms may protect commission independence, but ministerial approval will still apply to fuel price changes due to economy-wide impact. Forestry Investment: Tropik Wood Industries has started its ~$35m Carriage Sawmill Project, aimed at keeping more value in Fiji’s timber sector and creating jobs. Sugar Sector Pressure: Farmers say cane burning persists due to high labour costs and worker shortages, while Fiji Sugar Corporation warns burnt cane is still hurting recovery and milling efficiency. Health Alarm: Diabetes Fiji says the 2025 STEPS survey shows diabetes prevalence rising to 16.5–17% and that fewer than half of people with diabetes know they have it. Elder Abuse Barriers: A Nadi senior citizens group says fear of retaliation is stopping elderly victims from reporting family abuse and even accessing welfare. Sports Business: Rewa FC gets Fiji FA support and a home-tournament push for the OFC Men’s Champions League, with the association investing about $120,000 to host. Governance & Accountability: Nationwide talanoa sessions are being credited with speeding up ministry responses, after communities raised frustrations over delays and unmet commitments. Diplomacy & Climate: Tuvalu’s envoy says pre-COP events will put the “human face” of climate change on display, with Fiji and Tuvalu hosting sessions in October. Legal Update: Former Fijian Holdings CEO Nouzab Fareed’s bail pending sentencing was denied after his indecent assault conviction.

Waste & Recycling: Environment Minister Lynda Tabuya says Fiji can’t tackle its growing waste challenge alone, urging stronger partnerships between Government, communities and the private sector as the National Waste Management and Pollution Control Strategy 2026–2035 rolls out, with South Pacific Waste Recyclers marking 15 years and reporting 15 million kg of waste paper recycled. Development Finance: A Lowy Institute report says Fiji’s official development finance hit a record FJ$1.5b in 2024, up 64% on 2023, driven by Australia, the World Bank and other multilateral lenders. Aid Diplomacy: Finance Minister Esrom Immanuel rejects claims Fiji plays partners off each other, pointing to falling debt-to-GDP and “even-handed” cooperation. Health Funding Risk: UNAIDS warns cuts to prevention and community-led services could trigger HIV resurgence across Asia Pacific, stressing community organisations as essential health infrastructure. Land & Livelihoods: Yavusa Munia on Vanuabalavu regains 1,110 hectares under the Freehold Land Buyback Scheme, with PM Rabuka urging sustainable, productive investment alongside environmental protection. Business & Growth: Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation says the 2025–26 National Budget is balanced and businesses should focus on implementation and using existing incentives to expand. Digital Learning: DP World and LiteHaus International donate 450 laptops to Fiji schools to boost digital literacy and readiness for a tech-driven workforce. Sugar Supply: Sugar Minister Tomasi Tunabuna says Fiji imports processed white sugar for manufacturers while raw sugar imports kick in when local production dips, with mills operating above 80% at Lautoka and Labasa.