Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has taken a proactive stance on the rising cost of living in Fiji, encouraging citizens to prioritize essential purchases and consider self-sufficient practices to manage their household expenses. Speaking on Radio Fiji One’s Na Noda Paraiminisita program, Rabuka stressed the importance of making informed choices, particularly in light of the government’s fiscal policies which rely heavily on taxation. He noted that 22 essential food items and medicines are exempt from Value Added Tax (VAT) to help keep costs manageable for families.
Rabuka pointed out that while VAT is applicable to non-essential items, the decision to purchase essentials versus non-essentials ultimately lies in the hands of the consumers. He stated, “If you don’t buy those 22 essential items, you should have a very good source of income or the land you own. It’s your choice whether to buy essentials or VAT items,” reinforcing the importance of individual responsibility in these economic times.
The Prime Minister also urged Fijians to turn to local farming as a practical response to the financial challenges posed by rising prices, drawing upon his own experiences as an example of how self-sufficiency can alleviate economic pressures. This call to action aligns with previous discussions by government officials, including Deputy Prime Minister Professor Biman Prasad, who emphasized a three-pronged approach to tackle the cost of living crisis. This approach involves supporting vulnerable populations, adjusting policies to lower costs, and increasing incomes through significant pay raises for public servants.
Rabuka’s comments come against a backdrop of growing concerns from various sectors about the impact of high living costs. Opposition members have criticized the current government for insufficient support to local businesses and the inadequacy of fiscal strategies aimed at improving living standards. However, the government’s ongoing efforts to focus on essential goods through tax exemptions and support for local agriculture could provide a more stable economic environment for families in the long run.
This multifaceted strategy and the encouragement for self-sufficiency signify a hopeful outlook for Fijians as they navigate these challenging economic landscapes. The acknowledgment of the situation and the push for community resilience is a positive step toward managing current financial hardships.
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