Fiji’s private sector has welcomed the government’s recent establishment of a fuel controller, a Fuel Advisory Committee and a Cabinet sub‑committee on energy — but business leaders say those new structures must include formal information‑sharing and consultation to shore up confidence amid rising fuel uncertainty. Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation chief executive Edward Bernard said the measures “come at a critical time for the public, workers and businesses” and urged close engagement between government and industry.
“We support this initiative, and hope that there will be greater information sharing, consultations, and coordination with the private sector, to optimise positive outcomes at this time of heightened uncertainty,” Bernard said in a statement. He warned that, in the past few weeks, fuel security had become a primary business challenge across all sectors, affecting everything from large manufacturers to micro and small enterprises that have far less capacity to absorb supply shocks or sudden price spikes.
Bernard set out a list of priorities he wants the new fuel governance arrangements to address: ensure reliability of supply, stabilise prices where possible, and create clear plans for sourcing fuel from the most competitive markets. He said the Fuel Controller, Advisory Committee and Cabinet sub‑committee should also develop transparent, needs‑based distribution protocols and scenario planning for further escalation in both fuel supply disruptions and costs. “It is also critical to acknowledge that we are still within our cyclone season. Therefore, the private sector wants to see decisions that provide confidence and stability,” he added.
The FCEF said it will continue to consult with its membership and provide guidance to businesses on continuity planning, while making those priorities clear to government. Bernard framed the request as one of practical cooperation: companies need timely information on import timetables, any fuel‑rationing or prioritisation policies, and advance notice of price adjustments so they can plan operations and protect workers.
At the same time, Fiji Gas has sought to reassure consumers that there are no current problems with the supply of liquefied petroleum gas to Fiji. The company said it is closely monitoring international developments in energy markets — including geopolitical tensions in the Middle East — but that “LPG supply remained secure.” Fiji Gas confirmed its terminals in Lami, Lautoka, Sigatoka, Labasa and Savusavu are well stocked and that cylinder deliveries and bulk supplies will continue on schedule.
The government’s move comes as Pacific nations reassess fuel security in light of recent global market volatility. Heightened tensions in the Middle East have pushed energy prices and shipping costs higher, prompting some neighbouring governments to review contingency plans and airlines in the region to impose operational constraints where fuel access has been uncertain. In that context, FCEF’s call for a structured, consultative interface between the public and private sectors signals the private sector’s intention to play an active role in shaping how Fiji navigates potential supply disruptions and price shocks over the coming months.
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