The Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation (FCEF) is advocating for increased transparency regarding the recent electricity tariff consultation results. Chief Executive Officer Edward Bernard expressed concerns that commercial users’ perspectives may not have been accurately reflected in the outcome. He emphasized the importance of differentiating between residential and commercial responses during the consultation conducted by the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC), especially as the impacts of electricity tariffs vary considerably between these two groups.
Bernard pointed out that while the consultation indicated a majority support for the rationale behind the proposed tariff adjustment, many commercial users strongly oppose the suggested 34.7 percent electricity tariff increase. This resistance stems from worries about rising operational costs and the sustainability of their businesses.
Furthermore, Bernard criticized the consultation process, noting that there was significant confusion regarding whether the exercise was intended to gather feedback or simply to raise awareness. This ambiguity may have influenced the manner in which submissions were made and understood. He insists that a clear breakdown of the data—specifying the number of responses from businesses as opposed to households—is essential to accurately represent the concerns of commercial users before any final decisions are made.
In response to these issues, the FCCC has postponed its final decision on the electricity tariff authorization until April 30, 2026. This extension aims to facilitate additional dialogues with stakeholders, including business representatives and government officials, to explore potential support measures and financing options.
This ongoing engagement highlights the commitment to creating a fair and informed approach to tariff adjustments in Fiji, ensuring that the voices of both residential and commercial sectors are heard and considered.
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