Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has assured the people of Fiji that the upcoming National Budget will be well-balanced to address the pressing economic realities faced by households across the nation. In a pre-budget statement, he promised that the budget will reflect the current economic pressures, such as the rise in the cost of living, global price fluctuations, and the nation’s existing debt levels.
This marks the third national budget since the current government took office and is expected to be the most critical yet, particularly with ongoing inflation impacting families’ daily lives. Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Biman Prasad indicated that this budget will build on the progress made in the previous two years by focusing on safeguarding the country against forthcoming global economic challenges. He cited potential risks such as international conflicts and inflationary pressures that could affect small economies like Fiji’s, which is heavily reliant on tourism and foreign investment.
Mr. Prasad stated that Fiji’s economy experienced a growth of around four percent in 2024, surpassing previous forecasts. This positive growth offers the government a slight leeway to improve spending without losing sight of debt management. He has also confirmed that the government has listened attentively to public demands for increased social welfare allowances and support for vulnerable communities, indicating that their inputs will shape the upcoming budget.
Additionally, the recent consultations revealed valuable suggestions from a variety of stakeholders, reinforcing the government’s commitment to fostering an environment where the public feels encouraged to share their thoughts. The Finance Minister expressed optimism, promising “good news” within the budget while reaffirming that its focus will be on enhancing services and bettering the lives of Fijian citizens.
This budget is being framed not only as a response to immediate challenges but also as part of a longer-term strategy aimed at fostering sustainable economic growth. With active engagement from the community in shaping the budget, Citiznes can look forward to a future where their needs are met with thoughtful governance that prioritizes resilience and inclusivity.
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