The Fiji Labour Party (FLP) has voiced significant apprehensions regarding the recent approval of electricity tariff increases by the Fiji Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) for Energy Fiji Limited (EFL). These changes, set to take effect on January 1, 2026, have raised eyebrows due to the absence of adequate public and business consultation prior to the decision.
In a detailed letter addressed to FCCC Chief Executive Officer Senikavika Jiuta, Labour Party Leader Mahendra Chaudhry criticized the Commission for neglecting to publish the proposed tariff increases, which would have allowed for public feedback and submissions. He emphasized that established practices dictate that any decision on applications should come only after a thorough public consultation process.
“The FCCC’s decision to announce these increases as a continuation of EFL’s earlier application from 2023, which had been rejected, is concerning,” Mr. Chaudhry stated. He argued that EFL ought to have submitted a new application, followed by the requisite public consultation before any decision could be made.
The FLP’s concerns align with growing unease among the business community, with numerous businesses warning of the detrimental impact that rising electricity costs could have on their operations. Businesses have expressed fears that these increased costs will ultimately be transferred to consumers, potentially driving up prices for a variety of goods and services throughout the economy.
This situation highlights the critical balance that needs to be maintained between regulatory decisions and public input, especially when such decisions could have broad implications for the financial well-being of both consumers and businesses. The dialogue between the FLP and the FCCC is a reminder of the importance of transparency and community involvement in regulatory processes.
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