Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, has announced that a review of the minimum wage rate is not currently on the government’s agenda. During the Fiji Trades Union Congress National Council Meeting held in Suva, he affirmed that while discussions regarding the minimum wage are expected to continue in the future, the government’s focus at this time is elsewhere.
“The minimum wage has improved in recent years, and we are satisfied with its current status,” Prasad stated, elaborating that the Coalition Government increased the minimum wage to $4 at the start of January and subsequently raised it to $4.50 on August 1, 2024, followed by another increase to $5 effective from April 1, 2025.
This decision not to review the wage level immediately aligns with ongoing considerations regarding economic conditions and workplace productivity. The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized the importance of ongoing discussions with stakeholders, including the labor unions and business community, to ensure that any future changes to the wage system reflect fair compensation while also supporting economic sustainability.
Previous articles have highlighted the concerns raised by labor unions regarding the rising cost of living and their calls for minimum wage increases to align with these economic pressures. The Fiji Trades Union Congress has advocated for a living wage of $8 per hour, citing the need for wages to keep pace with inflation.
In response to these challenges, the government remains committed to assessing wage standards as part of its broader economic strategy. The partnership between stakeholders is crucial, as it may lead to solutions that benefit both workers and the business environment in Fiji, fostering a more equitable economic landscape.
As the government continues this dialogue, there is optimism that collaborative efforts can navigate the complexities of wage policies and make strides towards better living standards for all workers in Fiji.
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