The national minimum wage in Fiji will remain stable for the foreseeable future, according to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad. During a post-budget breakfast event in Suva, he informed attendees that there are no immediate plans for an increase. Prof. Prasad emphasized the importance of productivity in the economic landscape and noted that existing wages had already been increased through a phased approach.
Reflecting on previous adjustments, he stated the minimum wage had been set at $4 in January 2023, followed by a planned rise to $4.50 on August 1, 2024, and then to $5.00 in April 2025. Prof. Prasad asserted, “Minimum wage is not under review anytime soon,” and acknowledged the pivotal role of employers in collaborating with the government’s wage strategy.
This announcement coincides with concerns raised by the Fiji Trades Union Congress regarding the living wage and its alignment with the rising cost of living. While advocates have been pushing for a living wage as high as $8 per hour, Prof. Prasad underlined the need for ongoing dialogue among stakeholders, including employers, to ensure both worker welfare and business viability.
The government maintains a commitment to assessing wage levels as part of a broader economic strategy, and any future reviews will be approached with a focus on enhancing productivity.
This conversation around wages is crucial, as living standards and economic health are intertwined. Stakeholders are hopeful that continued discussions will lead to a fair wage system that supports workers while also fostering a sustainable environment for business growth. The emphasis on productivity could potentially drive both economic development and improved living standards, creating a more balanced and equitable economic framework.
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