Grant Thornton has characterized the 2025-2026 budget for Fiji as ambitious, people-centered, and forward-looking. Jerome Kado, the senior partner at Grant Thornton, emphasized the significance of structural reforms, citing the corporatization of the Water Authority of Fiji and the enhancement of border security in the face of increasing crime and drug-related challenges as particularly notable elements.
Kado acknowledged a projected fiscal deficit of 6.0% of GDP and public debt nearing $11.7 billion, which he believes necessitates careful monitoring. He praised the government’s efforts to create fiscal space through previous reforms but warned that maintaining debt sustainability amid global economic uncertainties will require ongoing discipline and the effective execution of planned investments.
Key to the budget’s success, he stated, is not only the design of policies but also their effective implementation. He underscored the necessity for strong stakeholder collaboration, timely execution of capital projects, and robust monitoring to achieve the desired outcomes. The ultimate measure of this budget’s success, Kado asserted, will be its impact on the lives of everyday citizens and its ability to deliver on promises of stability, prosperity, and inclusive development.
This sentiment aligns with the broader strategies outlined by Fiji’s Coalition Government, which recently presented the national budget aimed at driving economic resilience and enhancing household relief through significant investments in infrastructure, agriculture, and healthcare. The government has also actively engaged with citizens to ensure transparent and effective use of funds, a strategy that fosters optimism for the future.
As Fiji navigates these economic challenges, the forward-thinking approach encapsulated in the 2025-2026 budget signifies a hopeful trajectory towards improved living standards and sustained growth for its citizens. The emphasis on transparency, community feedback, and a responsible fiscal framework reflects a commitment to creating an inclusive and prosperous environment for all Fijians.
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