National Trade Measurement and Standards Director Virisila Tuimanu has emphasized the importance of ensuring that all imported building materials meet the highest quality standards. Speaking at the Compliance Clinic on Mandatory Building Materials Standards in Suva, Tuimanu addressed numerous stakeholders, highlighting that maintaining quality is not just a legal obligation; it represents a significant economic and social investment.
Tuimanu stressed the critical nature of safety in construction, noting that the integrity of buildings, workplaces, schools, hospitals, and infrastructure is paramount. “It is not just a regulation; it is a commitment to people, safety, and the protection of human life,” she stated, reinforcing the necessity of high standards for the structures that support everyday life.
Asenaca Kevu, Senior Technical Assistant for National Trade Measurement and Standards, explained that Fiji enforces stringent import licensing requirements for key materials, including steel reinforcement, roofing materials, and self-drilling screws. She warned that if products do not meet the established standards, they will be confiscated and recalled from the market. The process requires a written notice to be given at least 14 days in advance prior to any recall.
The Ministry of Commerce has underscored that effective collaboration among regulators, importers, and manufacturers is essential to bridging compliance gaps and enhancing trust within the country’s construction sector. This proactive approach aims to ensure that quality and safety remain the cornerstones of Fiji’s building industry, ultimately benefiting everyone involved and safeguarding the community.
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