The Government of India, recognized as the largest producer of generic medicines worldwide, recently delivered over three tonnes of Anti-Retroviral (ARV) drugs to the Government of Fiji. This significant handover, which took place on November 11, 2025, at the Fiji Pharmaceutical & Biomedical Services Centre, reinforces India’s commitment to enhancing public health collaboration and supporting Fiji’s battle against the increasing prevalence of HIV.
Attending the ceremony were High Commissioner of India to Fiji, Suneet Mehta, alongside Fiji’s Minister for Health and Medical Services, Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu, and other notable officials, including the Assistant Minister for Health and Medical Services Penioni Ravunawa, UNAIDS Ambassador Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, and Jeremaia Mataika, Head of Fiji Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Services.
This donation, a grant from the Indian government, marks the most substantial single consignment of medications ever provided by India to Fiji, aimed at bolstering the existing supply of life-saving ARV medication. It is particularly pertinent given the recent spike in reported HIV cases, ensuring that individuals living with HIV in Fiji have uninterrupted access to treatment. India has previously supported Fiji with similar donations of ARV drugs and medical supplies in 2021, 2022, and 2023.
In his remarks, Mr. Mehta emphasized that this donation is part of a broader effort to strengthen bilateral cooperation in healthcare between India and Fiji. The partnership extends beyond medicine provisions and includes initiatives such as the upcoming establishment of a 100-bed super-speciality hospital in Suva and the offering of affordable generic medicines through India’s Jan Aushadhi Scheme.
India plays a crucial role in the global fight against AIDS, producing two-thirds of the world’s ARV drugs and significantly enhancing access to affordable treatment for those in need worldwide. This latest gesture reflects India’s commitment as a dependable development and humanitarian partner, especially in the Indo-Pacific region.
Expressing gratitude, Dr. Lalabalavu highlighted the significance of the timely delivery of these life-saving drugs, which are essential for maintaining care continuity for the HIV-positive population in Fiji. He praised India’s consistent support, which proves vital in strengthening Fiji’s healthcare system and saving lives.
With the immediate distribution of this medical consignment across Fiji, patients will receive their essential medication without interruption, demonstrating India’s unwavering dedication to supporting its partners in times of need.
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