Fiji content creators push for monetisation to accompany new tax plan
Fiji’s online content creators are urging the government to pair its new tax plan with clear avenues for monetising digital earnings. Shania Singh, a digital creator known for entertainment, beauty, lifestyle and travel content, said many young creators still depend on paid collaborations with large brands and have limited opportunities to earn directly from their online work. She argued that taxation should not discourage newcomers, noting that taxes would only apply once income crosses a set threshold.
Monetisation could offer a legitimate livelihood for talented youths who are currently navigating uncertain incomes from online platforms. Singh said, monetising on social media would enable many to earn a very good living.
Musician and online creator Vly Navoka echoed the sentiment, stressing that formal recognition of the sector has long been overdue. He pointed out that if monetisation is included on the tax list, creators would receive direct income from online platforms, with government taxes applying only after earnings exceed the threshold. Navoka recalled that early in his career, a portion of his income was siphoned off by third parties, and monetisation now allows direct earnings.
Both creators stressed online responsibility, noting that Fiji’s image is under a worldwide watch. Navoka urged careful posting to protect the country’s reputation, and Singh warned that some online trends blur the line between entertainment and harmful behaviour. They urged fellow creators to act professionally, plan carefully and uphold ethical standards.
The tax plan marks a milestone for Fiji’s digital economy, but the creators’ calls for monetisation, guidance and responsible growth underline a broader need: policies that support the sector’s sustainable development. This aligns with ongoing discussions about digitalization and a robust legal framework to accompany growth, as Fiji strengthens its National Digital Strategy 2025-2030. Officials have highlighted that connectivity must be paired with protection, and that MSMEs—over 80 percent of registered businesses in Fiji—stand to gain from streamlined digital processes and better access to online markets.
Context from Fiji’s digital economy discussions shows the potential upside of a well-structured monetisation framework. Global online activity is vast, with billions online and high internet penetration in Fiji, and sector leaders point to substantial upside if creators can earn directly while contributing to tax revenues only after thresholds are met. The audio-visual sector, for example, has demonstrated how formal recognition and supportive policies can drive investment, with significant economic activity and local job creation.
What this could mean for policy and practice
– Create a clear monetisation framework for content creators, with a defined income threshold for tax, and straightforward reporting requirements for platforms.
– Establish a registry or recognized status for content creators to access guidance, training and protective measures online.
– Provide digital-literacy and ethics training to help creators maintain professional standards and protect Fiji’s image on global platforms.
– Align monetisation policies with broader digital-economy objectives, ensuring that growth is inclusive for MSMEs and youth talent.
Summary
Fiji’s content creators are advocating for monetisation to complement the government’s new tax plan, arguing that direct online earnings, once thresholds are met, can empower a new generation of digital talent while supporting tax revenue. Their call for formal recognition, guidance and responsible growth fits within Fiji’s broader push to build a resilient digital economy under the National Digital Strategy 2025-2030, with potential spillovers into sectors like audio-visual production that already demonstrate substantial economic benefits.
Positive note
If policymakers implement clear monetisation rules, provide guidance and uphold ethical standards online, Fiji could unlock exciting opportunities for youth, diversify its economy and strengthen its position as a regional hub for digital innovation.
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