Savenaca Narube, the leader of Unity Fiji party, is urging the Government to reevaluate the list of goods that are under price control, with the intention of temporarily expanding this list. He believes this adjustment would enable both the Government and the corporate sector to better manage the rise in prices to ensure a fair distribution of the financial burden.
Narube criticized the current approach of the government, after nearly two years in power, which primarily focuses on increasing incomes through higher minimum wages and educational and welfare allowances in the 2024/2025 national budget. He argues that the Coalition Government is failing to address the escalating cost of living, which continues to impact families throughout Fiji.
“The increase in prices for many goods and services lacks any logical economic explanation,” commented Narube, a former governor of the Reserve Bank of Fiji. He accused some sellers of exploiting the cost-of-living crisis for profit.
He emphasized that Unity Fiji has consistently advocated for a balanced approach to tackle the high cost of living, which disproportionately affects the populace. Narube proposed that the Government could alleviate some financial pressure by shifting customs taxes from essential goods to luxury items, while still maintaining overall revenue. He also recommended reviewing Fiji’s exchange rate policy to enhance the stability of the Fiji dollar.