Small business owners are appealing to the government for additional incentives in the upcoming national budget to help them cope with escalating living costs. Many vendors express concern over rising raw material prices, which are jeopardizing their ability to maintain operations amid growing economic challenges.
Howard Nand, a vendor selling beans, emphasizes the pressing need for relief. He suggests that a decrease in the VAT rate could make a significant difference. Nand pointed out, “If we can reduce it to about 9% or 10-11%, that would help.” Another vendor, Mohammed Khan, echoed these sentiments, stating that low-income individuals are particularly affected by the increasing cost of living and are looking to the government for action.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, has acknowledged the financial strains felt by many citizens, indicating that the upcoming 2025-26 National Budget aims to enhance service delivery for the population. Prasad expressed gratitude for the engagement from various sectors in discussions about the budget, suggesting a collaborative approach to addressing these economic issues.
Similar concerns have been raised by other small business operators, reflecting a broader sentiment in the community regarding the need for government support. Previous remarks by Professor Prasad have centered on the government’s commitment to transparency and tangible results when spending public funds, which may bring optimism among the public as they anticipate potential budget adjustments.
As the date for the budget announcement approaches, there is a collective hope that the government will recognize the urgency of these requests. With the focus on easing financial burdens, there is potential for meaningful reforms that could positively impact the lives of many struggling Fijians, especially those operating small businesses. Overall, this proactive engagement from vendors could lead to positive changes aimed at fostering a more supportive economic environment.
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