 RESTRICTED  
  
WT/TPR/S/4 44 
24 May 2023 
(23-3532) Page: 1/111 
Trade Policy Review Body   
 
TRADE POLICY REVIEW  
REPORT BY THE SECRETARIAT  
FIJI 
This report, prepared for the fourth Trade Policy Review of Fiji, has been drawn up by the 
WTO Secretariat on its own responsibility. The Secretariat has, as required by the Agreement 
establishing the Trade Policy Review Mechanism (Annex  3 of the Marrakesh Agreement Establishing 
the World Trade Organization), sought clarification from Fiji on its trade policies and practices  
 
Any technical questions arising from this report ma y be addressed to Masahiro  Hayafuji 
(tel. 022 739 5873), Mukela  Luanga (tel. 022 739 6328), and Michael  Kolie (tel. 022 739 5931 ). 
 
Document WT/TPR/G/4 44 contains the policy statement submitted by Fiji.  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note: This report is subject to restricted circulation and press embargo until the end of the 
first session of the meeting of the Trade Policy Review Body on Fiji. This report was drafted in English.  
  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 2 - 
 
Contents  
SUMMARY  ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................  6 
1  ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT  ................................ ................................ ...........................  9 
1.1  Main features of the economy  ................................ ................................ ........................  9 
1.2  Recent economic developments  ................................ ................................ ....................  10 
1.3  Developments in trade and investment  ................................ ................................ .........  14 
1.3.1   Trends and patterns in merchandise and services trade  ................................ ................  14 
1.3.2   Trends and patterns in FDI  ................................ ................................ .......................  18 
2  TRADE AND INVESTMENT REGIMES  ................................ ................................ ...........  19 
2.1  General framework  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 19 
2.2  Trade policy formulation and objectives  ................................ ................................ .........  19 
2.3  Trade agreements and arrangements  ................................ ................................ ............  20 
2.3.1   WTO ................................ ................................ ................................ ......................  20 
2.3.2   Regional and preferential agreements  ................................ ................................ ........  21 
2.4  Investment regime  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 24 
3  TRADE POLICIES AND PRACTICES BY MEASURE  ................................ .........................  28 
3.1  Measures directly affecting imports  ................................ ................................ ...............  28 
3.1.1   Customs procedures, valuation, and requirements  ................................ .......................  28 
3.1.2   Rules of origin  ................................ ................................ ................................ .........  31 
3.1.3   Tariffs  ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................  31 
3.1.4   Other c harges affecting imports  ................................ ................................ .................  34 
3.1.5   Import prohibitions, restrictions, and licensing  ................................ ............................  35 
3.1.6   Anti-dumping, countervailing, and safeguard measures  ................................ ................  35 
3.1.7   Other measures affecting imports  ................................ ................................ ..............  35 
3.2  Measures directly affecting exports  ................................ ................................ ...............  36 
3.2.1   Customs procedures and requirements  ................................ ................................ ....... 36 
3.2.2   Taxes, charges, and levies  ................................ ................................ ........................  36 
3.2.3   Export prohibitions, restrictions, and licensing  ................................ .............................  36 
3.2.4   Export support and promotion  ................................ ................................ ...................  38 
3.2.5   Export finance, insurance, and guarantees  ................................ ................................ .. 38 
3.3  Measures affecting production and trade  ................................ ................................ ....... 38 
3.3.1   Incentives  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...............  38 
3.3.2   Standards and other technical requirements  ................................ ...............................  39 
3.3.3   Sanitary and phytosanitary requirements  ................................ ................................ .... 41 
3.3.4   Competition policy and price controls  ................................ ................................ .........  42 
3.3.5   State trading, state -owned enterprises, and privatization  ................................ .............  44 
3.3.6   Government procurement  ................................ ................................ .........................  46 
3.3.7   Intellectual property rights  ................................ ................................ ........................  48 WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 3 - 
 
4  TRADE POLICIES BY SECTOR  ................................ ................................ ......................  52 
4.1  Agriculture, forestry and fishe ries ................................ ................................ .................  52 
4.1.1   Agriculture  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..............  52 
4.1.2   Fisheries  ................................ ................................ ................................ .................  56 
4.2  Mining and energy  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 58 
4.2.1   Energy  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...................  59 
4.3  Manufacturing  ................................ ................................ ................................ ............  63 
4.3.1   Overview and policy objectives  ................................ ................................ ..................  63 
4.3.2   Beverages  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..............  64 
4.3.3   Textile and clothing industry  ................................ ................................ .....................  64 
4.3.4   Wood processing  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 65 
4.4  Services  ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................  65 
4.4.1   Financial services  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 65 
4.4.2  Telecommunications  ................................ ................................ ................................ . 71 
4.4.3   Transport  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................  74 
4.4.4   Tourism  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................  78 
5  APPENDIX TABLES  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 81 
 
  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 4 - 
 
CHARTS  
 
Chart 1.1 Composition of merchandise trade by main HS section/chapter, 2016 and 2021  .........  15 
Chart  1.2 Direction of merchandise trade, 2016 and 2021  ................................ ......................  16 
Chart  1.3 Main trading partners for textiles and textile  articles (HS Section  11), by end -use, 
2021 ................................ ................................ ................................ ...............................  17 
Chart  3.1 Distribution of MFN tariff rates, 2015 and 2022  ................................ ......................  32 
Chart  3.2 Tariff escalation by 2 -digit ISIC industry, 2022  ................................ .......................  33 
Chart  3.3 Simple average applied MFN tariff rates, by HS section, 2015 and 2022  ....................  34 
 
TABLES  
 
Table 1.1 Selected economic indicators, 2016 -21 ................................ ................................ .... 9 
Table  1.2 Balance of payments, 2016 -21 ................................ ................................ .............  13 
Table  1.3 Composition of trade in services, 2016 -21 ................................ .............................  17 
Table  1.4 FDI, 2016 -21................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 18 
Table  2.1 Fiji's notifications, 2016 -23 ................................ ................................ ..................  21 
Table  2.2 RTAs that were signed or entered into force during the review period  ........................  22 
Table  2.3 List o f restricted activities  ................................ ................................ ....................  25 
Table  3.1 Customs cooperation agreements  ................................ ................................ .........  30 
Table  3.2 Structure of MFN tariff, 2015 and 2022  ................................ ................................ .. 31 
Table  3.3 Exports requiring a licence, 2023  ................................ ................................ ..........  37 
Table  3.4 State -owned enterprises, 2023  ................................ ................................ .............  45 
Table  3.5 Key indicators of government procurement, FY2018/19 -FY2021/2022  .......................  47 
Table  4.1 Trade in major agricultural pr oducts, 2016 -21 ................................ ........................  52 
Table  4.2 Support measures between FY2021/22 -FY2022/23  ................................ .................  54 
Table  4.3 Government support to the sugar industry, FY2020/21 -FY2022/23  ...........................  55 
Table  4.4 Electricity generation by generator and source, 2016 -21 ................................ ..........  60 
Table  4.5 Licensed financial entities including branches/agencies, 2016 -June 2021 ...................  65 
Table  4.6 Gross assets of the financial system, 2016 -June 2021 ................................ .............  66 
Table  4.7 Summary of commercial banks' profitability, 2016 -June 2021 ................................ .. 68 
Table  4.8 Composition of the capital markets, 2017 -21 ................................ ..........................  71 
Table  4.9 Telecommunications indicators, 2016 -21 ................................ ...............................  72 
Table  4.10 Fiji's port call and performance, 2018 -21 ................................ .............................  76 
Table  4.11 Tourism indicators, 2016 -22 ................................ ................................ ...............  79 
Table  4.12 Tourism incentives  ................................ ................................ ............................  80 
 
BOXES  
 
Box 3.1 Selected customs modernization measures 2016 23  ................................ ..................  29 
Box 3.2 Supports provided to MSMEs and Co -operatives  ................................ ........................  39 WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 5 - 
 
 
APPENDIX TABLES  
 
Table A1.1 Merchandise re -exports by HS section, 2016 -21 ................................ ...................  81 
Table A1.2 Merchandise exports by HS section and major HS chapter/subheading, 2016 -21 ...... 82 
Table A1.3 Merchandise exports by destination, 2016 -21) ................................ ......................  83 
Table A1.4 Merchandise imports by HS section and major HS chapter/subheading, 2016 -21 ...... 84 
Table A1.5 Merchandise imports by origin, 2016 -21 ................................ ..............................  85 
 
Table A2.1 Main trade -related legislation  ................................ ................................ .............  86 
 
Table A3.1 Fiji's applie d MFN tariff summary, 2022  ................................ ...............................  89 
Table A3.2 Applied MFN rate exceeding bound rate, 2022  ................................ ......................  91 
Table A3.3 Tax and customs incentives  ................................ ................................ ................  92 
Table A3.4 Prohibited imports 2023  ................................ ................................ .....................  99 
Table A3.5 Licensed imports 2023  ................................ ................................ ......................  100 
Table A3.6 Selected industries under the scope of the FCCC  ................................ ..................  102 
Table A3.7 Goods and services under price control 2023  ................................ .......................  105 
 
Table A4.1 Air services agreements  ................................ ................................ ....................  111 
 
  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 6 - 
 
SUMMARY  
1. Fiji is an archipelago classified as an upper middle income country, with a high human 
development index. Its economy is largely exposed to the effects of climate change and frequent 
extreme weather episodes. In 2016, for example, a trop ical cyclone destroyed physical infrastructure 
and led to a significant loss in agricultural production. Investments related to post cyclone 
reconstruction work contributed to GDP growth. Furthermore, substantial stimulus packages, 
including tax reduction and concessional loans, were devised to support economic activities.  
2. GDP growth rates were positive from 2016 through 2018, as the expansionary fiscal and 
monetary stance lifted private consumption and further reinvigorated investments. Construction, 
finance, food, and accommodation activities were the main growth engines. However, in 2019, the 
economy contracted by 0.6% due to poor performance in the manufacturing sector. Furthermore, 
the COVID 19 pandemic took a significant toll, due to a fall in tourism activities and rippling effects 
to other economic sectors. Supply chain disruption in the manufacturing sector also played a role, 
and the economy further contracted in 2020 and 2021 by 17% and 5.1%, respectively. In 2022, 
Fiji's economic activities reboun ded, and the recovery is set to continue in 2023. Inflation in Fiji is 
generally driven by food and fuel prices. Its rate stood over 3% from 2016 to 2018, before falling in 
2019 and 2020. Post cyclone stimulus packages have led to a further deterioration o f the country's 
fiscal deficit in recent years. The same dynamic has also prevailed for the current account deficit.  
3. Fiji's strategic vision, as highlighted in its Development Plan, places emphasis on, inter alia, 
promoting MSMEs' development, empowering y outh and women, and building an environmentally 
sustainable economy. International merchandise trade (imports and exports) stood at over 100% in 
2019 but was affected by the COVID 19 pandemic. Primary agricultural products and agri food 
preparations are th e main export products, and the top export destinations are the United States, 
Australia, and New Zealand. Imports are mostly sourced from Asia/Oceania. The leading import 
categories are food products, petroleum products, machinery and electrical equipment , and 
transport equipment.  
4. In December 2022, a new government was formed after a general election, and the previous 
Ministry of Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport was reorganized as the Ministry of Trade, Co 
operatives, and Small and Medium Enterprises (MTCSME). The Prime Minister became responsible 
for foreign affairs, climate change, environment, civil service, information, public enterprises, and 
veteran affairs. During the review period, Fiji also enacted some new or amended trade related  laws 
in areas such as investment, commerce, customs, taxation, standards, intellectual property, 
agriculture, land, energy, environment, health, financial services, telecommunications and 
audiovisual services, road and maritime transport, and tourism.  
5. The MTCSME is responsible for formulating and implementing Fiji's external trade policy. It is 
also responsible for industry, investment, co operative businesses, micro and small enterprises, 
metrology, standards, consumer protection, and all trade negotiatio ns. The MTCSME consults with 
other ministries and trade related agencies mainly through semi regular meetings of the Cabinet 
mandated inter ministerial Trade and Development Committee. The private sector and civil society 
continue to interact formally and informally with the Government.  
6. The National Development Plan, issued in 2017 and currently under review, sets out both 
short  and long term plans with a view to pursuing a progressive, vibrant, and inclusive society. The 
National Export Strategy, also cur rently under review, continues to serve as a guideline to achieve 
sustainable growth in export competitiveness, value addition, and diversification; the Strategy 
provides grant funding targeted to businesses that are currently exporting or intend to export . 
7. Fiji fully supports, and is committed to, the multilateral trading system. Fiji is an original 
Member of the WTO, and grants at least MFN treatment to all of its trading partners. It is neither a 
party to the Information Technology Agreement nor to the A greements on Government Procurement 
and Trade in Civil Aircraft. In WTO negotiations, Fiji is part of the Small, Vulnerable Economies 
group; the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) Group; Friends of Fish; and one of the so called 
"W52" sponsors. Fiji has not been involved in any formal disputes. During the review period, Fiji 
made several WTO notifications, although some are outstanding.  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 7 - 
 
8. Fiji has five regional trade agreements in force. During the review period, one such agreement 
entered into force. On 14 March 2019, Fiji signed an Interim Economic Partnership Agreement (IEPA) 
with the United Kingdom to replicate the IEPA between the European Union and the Pacific States.  
9. On 3 June 2021, the Parliament adopted the Investment Act 2021, replacing the Forei gn 
Investment Act 1999 and other subsequent acts and regulations. The new Act entered into force on 
1 August 2022. According to the authorities, the Act was framed on international benchmarks.  
10. Fiji ratified the Agreement on Trade Facilitation (TFA) in 2017  and subsequently notified its 
related commitments to the WTO. Fiji implemented several customs modernization reforms, 
including a digital and organizational transformation of the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service to 
meet future challenges of increased traf fic and trade, as well as to take advantage of digitalization 
opportunities. As at September 2022, Fiji had fulfilled 97.1% of its TFA implementation 
commitments. The two remaining commitments concern test procedures for goods declared for 
importation (def initive implementation date: 31 December 2023) and the establishment of a single 
window (31 December 2025).  
11. Fiji has bound 47.5% of its tariff lines. A significant difference remains between the average 
bound tariff (40.1% in 2022) and the average applied MFN tariff (6.2% in 2022, compared with 
11.2% in 2015). The simple average applied MFN tariff for agricultural products (WTO definition) 
was 7.5% in 2022 and for non-agricultural  goods 6.0%. For several tariff lines, the applied MFN rate 
exceeds the bound rate. The VAT applies to most imports at zero, 9%, or 15%. Excise duties, at 
5%, 10%, or 15%, apply to a range of products, whether imported or manufactured domestically.  
12. Fiji has substantial tariff concessions in the form of partial and full exemptions an d remissions. 
According to the authorities, duty and tax concessions granted to imports resulted in forgone 
revenue in the range of FJD 250 million (around USD 115 million) over the 2016 22 period. Although 
declining, revenue losses on import related conce ssions amounted to approximately 15% of total 
fiscal revenue and some 33% on average for the last past three years (2020 22) of revenue 
collections by Fiji Customs.  
13. Several import prohibitions, restrictions, and licensing requirements for health, security,  and 
moral reasons remain in place. Fiji has few standards and technical regulations, mostly adopted from 
Australia and New Zealand. Several products, such as fisheries and agricultural products, are subject 
to export licensing requirements. Fiji continues  to have export incentive schemes and other 
extensive tax incentives. Some of these incentives target priority sectors and are occasionally 
subject to minimum local content or export requirements. Fiji did not take anti-dumping  or 
countervailing actions du ring the review period and has no safeguards legislation.  
14. Fiji's competition law addresses competition affairs, consumer protection, and price controls. 
In general, the legislation prohibits restrictive business practices, misuse of dominant market 
positio n, bid rigging, exclusive dealing, resale price maintenance, and price discrimination. It has 
established and empowered the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission to discharge various 
functions such as (i) competition adjudication and enforcement; (ii)  consumer protection and 
enforcement; (iii) price control and monitoring; and (iv) economic regulation in certain industries, 
including specific provisions to protect women, rural dwellers, and other disadvantaged groups. 
Goods and services under price con trol in Fiji include various commodities, energy bills, 
infrastructure services fees (e.g. telecommunications, postal), and transport fees. State owned 
enterprises remain active in a few sectors.  
15. Some changes occurred in intellectual property rights legisl ation. The introduction of the three 
new pieces of legislation (Trademarks Act (Act No. 36 of 2021); Patents Act (Act No. 37 of 2021); 
and Designs Act (Act No. 38 of 2021)) in Parliament on 19 August 2021 in relation to intellectual 
property rights is cons idered as a timely intervention for Fiji to meet its international commitments. 
While the legislation has been passed, no commencement date has yet been given; therefore, the 
acts are still not in effect.  
16. Agriculture in Fiji is characterized by the large s ubsistence sector, the predominance of small 
farms (of less than one hectare), low mechanization, high input costs, poor farming and husbandry 
practices, inadequate infrastructure, marketing inefficiencies, and lack of access to credit. Between 
2016 and 20 21, the annual contribution of agriculture, forestry, and fishing to Fiji's GDP averaged WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 8 - 
 
14.7%; the sector employs, directly or indirectly, close to two thirds of the labour force. Subsistence 
farming and sugarcane production have traditionally been import ant for Fiji's agriculture. Support 
policies include infrastructure and mechanization assistance, equity support, and relatively high 
tariffs on some foodstuffs. Fiji made no domestic support reduction commitments in the WTO; all of 
its support measures ha ve been notified under the "Green Box". It does not provide export subsidies. 
Commercial farming is dominated by sugarcane. Processing and importation of unrefined sugar are 
the monopoly of the government owned Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC). In September 20 17, the 
European Union terminated the application of country specific quotas for sugar imports from ACP 
countries. The FSC is seeking alternative markets.  
17. Fisheries accounted for 0.9% of GDP in 2021 (same in 2016). In terms of exports and re 
exports in ton nes, fisheries accounted for around 10% of merchandise exports, which consist mainly 
of frozen and (canned) prepared or preserved tuna. On 21 November 2019, the Aquaculture Strategy 
(as a part of the Ministry of Fisheries Strategic Development Plan 2019 20 29) was launched as a 
strategic development plan for the fisheries sector. According to the Strategy, there is capacity for 
significant growth in the industry with supports from the Ministry of Fisheries to stimulate large  and 
small scale production. The Government provides several tax incentives that apply to newly 
incorporated entities engaged in a new business in certain areas between 1 January 2018 and 31 
December 2028. In 2018, Fiji ratified the Agreement on Port State Measures.  
18. More than half of elec tricity generated originates from renewable energy resources, while the 
rest depends on imported fossil fuel powered energy. Reducing energy imports is one of the 
Government's policy objectives. Tax incentives are granted to promote development of renewabl e 
energy resources. Prices are regulated, and subsidies are granted to small domestic consumers and 
schools.  
19. Manufacturing accounts for 14.3% of GDP and 25.7% of goods exports. The main industries 
are food processing, tobacco, and beverages (mostly bottled  water); apparel; and wood based 
products. The Government grants tax incentives and concessionary credit to promote manufacturing. 
The manufacturing industry has also benefited from marketing grants provided by the Government 
and an average applied MFN tar iff rate of 6.2%. Apparel exports have been boosted by improved 
market access under Australia's Developing Country Preference scheme.  
20. The services sector is the main pillar of Fiji's economy, as it contributes to two thirds of GDP 
and accounts for 51% of t otal exports. The sector is mainly made up of tourism, transport and 
storage, finance, and business services. The financial services industry performed relatively well 
during the review period, and almost all financial institutions contributed to its growi ng assets. 
Banking remains the main channel of funding in the economy, and the quality of lending was stable 
until 2019. However, the COVID 19 pandemic led to an increase in non-performing  loans. The 
prudential framework for the financial sector was furthe r improved during the review period. 
Offshore lending is not permitted unless approved by the central bank. Tourism is the largest 
contributor to GDP overall and foreign exchange earnings and is a major provider of jobs. The main 
source markets are Austral ia and New Zealand. Visitor arrivals slumped in 2020 and 2021, due to 
pandemic related restrictions.  
21. Fiji's commitments under the GATS cover only hotels and other tourist accommodations and 
restaurants. State involvement in services remains significant (ma inly in transport and 
telecommunications). For example, the state owned Airports Fiji Ltd manages international airports, 
and the 51% government owned Air Terminal Services Fiji is the only provider of ground handling 
services. A state owned company also h olds a dominant position in both fixed and mobile phone 
industries. However, in the port management industry, since 2013, a concession has been granted 
to a private company to provide port services, previously in the hands of a state owned monopoly. 
In gen eral, foreigners participate in services activities under the same conditions as their domestic 
counterparts. Maritime cabotage is not permitted, but a foreign ship may apply for a permit to 
engage in coastal shipping, provided there are no domestic equiva lent services. Banking and 
insurance are relatively open, with subsidiaries and branches allowed. Under the Foreign Investment 
Regulations, there is a minimum investment threshold for a foreign investor wishing to engage in 
certain tourism related activiti es. In addition, foreign investments are not allowed in homestay 
lodging services and backpacker operator businesses, which are reserved for citizens.  
 WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 9 - 
 
 1  ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT  
1.1  Main features of the economy  
1.1.  Fiji is an archipelago of more than 300 islands, of which about 110 are permanently inhabited. 
Some three  quarters of its population  live in the Greater Suva area or other urban centres. The 
country's economy is the second largest among the Pacific Island countries  after Papua New Guinea, 
with a GDP of USD  4.59 billion  in 2021. Since 2012, Fiji has been classified by the World Bank as an 
upper middle -income country. Its GNI per capita peaked at USD  5,910 in 2018, before falling to 
USD 4,930 in 2020 due to the negative  effects of the COVID -19 pandemic.1 
1.2.  Fiji's Human Development Index value for 2021 was 0.730 (slightly down from 0.746 in 2019), 
which put the country in the high -human development category.2 The official poverty rate stood at 
24% in 2019.  
1.3.  Fiji's economy relies heavily on the services sector, which  accounted for two  thirds of GDP from 
2016 to 2019 before recording a slight decrease in 2020 and 2021 (Table  1.1). The sector is mainly 
made up of tourism, transport and storage, finance , and business services. The shares of agriculture, 
forestry and fishing , and manufacturing in GDP are also significant. With some 17% of GDP in 2021, 
the agriculture, forestry, and fishing sector has continued to exp and noticeably to surpass the 
manufacturing sector. This reflects buoyant agricultural activities, mainly fuelled by production of 
timber, sugar cane , and fish. The share of manufacturing tends to decrease over time , and growing 
prospects remain subdued.  
Table 1.1 Selected economic indicators, 2016 -21  
  2016  2017  2018  2019  2020  2021  
National accounts  
Current GDP at market price  
(FJD million)  10,327.3  11,065.0  11,650.6  11,842.6  9,709.8  8,895.9  
Current GDP at market price  
(USD million)  4,930.2  5,353.5  5,581.4  5,481.7  4,477.0  4,296.2  
GDP per capita at current market price 
(USD)  5,651.3  6,101.1  6,317.5  6,159.5  4,994.2  4,758.3  
Real GDP (% change)  2.4  5.4  3.8  -0.6  -17.0  -5.1  
GDP by economic activities at current basic prices (%):  
Agriculture, forestry and fishing  13.1  13.0  13.6  14.6  17.1  17.0  
Mining and quarrying  1.0  0.8  0.7  0.8  1.3  1.3  
Manufacturing  13.4  12.9  12.9  12.7  12.9  13.6  
Electricity, gas, water supply, sewerage  2.4  2.5  2.4  2.2  2.2  2.4  
Construction  3.1  3.2  3.4  3.6  3.5  2.5  
Services  67.0  67.6  67.0  66.1  63.0  63.2  
Inflation and interest rates  
Inflation (CPI, % change)  3.9  3.4  4.1  1.8  -2.6  0.2  
Lending rate (%)  5.85  5.74  5.68  6.03  6.19  5.94  
Deposit rate (%)  2.82  3.24  3.40  4.06  3.70  2.58  
Exchange rate  
FJD/USD  (annual average)  2.097  2.063  2.092  2.160  2.161  2.074  
Nominal effective exchange rate (% 
change)  0.2  -1.4  0.9 -0.3  0.7  -0.3  
Real effective exchange rate (% change)  2.4  -0.3  4.1  -3.6  -3.0  -2.1  
Central Government budget (% of GDP)  
Revenue  26.1  27.6  26.9  27.3  20.4  21.4  
Tax revenue  23.2  24.5  23.8  22.5  16.7  15.4  
Expenditure  27.4  29.4  32.4  29.9  33.2  37.2  
Overall balance  -1.3  -1.8  -5.5  -2.7  -12.8  -15.8  
Primary balance  1.3  0.7  -2.8  0.1  -9.1  -11.8  
Central Government debt  44.0  43.7  46.4  48.9  70.8  86.7  
Saving and investment (% of GDP)  
Gross savings  19.8  19.0  19.1  16.5  21.4  31.9  
Gross domestic investment / gross capital 
formation  20.3  20.3  19.2  15.9  16.5  17.3  
Saving -investment gap  -0.6  -1.3  -0.1  0.6  4.9  14.6  
 
1 World Bank, GNI per Capita (Atlas Method) . Viewed at: 
https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/NY.GNP.PCAP.CD?locations=FJ . 
2 UNDP, Human Development Report . Viewed at: https://hdr.undp.org/data -center/specific -country -
data#/countries/FJI . WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 10 - 
 
   2016  2017  2018  2019  2020  2021  
External sector  (% of GDP, unless otherwise indicated)  
Current account balance  -3.6  -6.6  -8.4  -12.6  -13.6  -16.0  
Net merchandise trade  -20.3  -20.4  -24.3  -25.3  -14.7  -22.0  
Merchandise exports  18.7  18.4  18.0  18.7  18.3  20.7  
Merchandise imports  39.0  38.8  42.3  44.0  33.0  42.7  
Services balance  16.4  15.4  16.6  14.9  -1.9  -5.3  
Capital account  0.1  0.1  0.1  0.1  0.1  0.1  
Financial account  -6.3  -9.4  -12.0  -11.8  -7.7  -18.4  
Direct investment  -8.3  -7.3  -8.5  -6.5  -5.0  -8.8  
Balance of payments  -0.1  3.1  -2.3  1.7  -0.4  11.5  
Merchandise exports (% change in USD)  -5.0  7.1  1.7  2.3  -20.2  8.3  
Merchandise imports (% change in USD)  2.2  8.2  13.6  2.2  -38.7  24.0  
Service exports (% change in USD)  5.4  7.1  11.9  -2.8  -74.5  -30.9  
Service imports (% change in USD)  1.4  13.6  11.8  8.4  -37.1  2.3  
International reserves (USD  million, 
end-period)  908.6  1,116.1  947.4  1,043.0  1,081.5  1,517.5  
in months of prospective imports  5.3  5.7  4.1  7.3  7.7  6.9  
Gross external debt (USD  million, 
end-period)  1,460.7  1,655.0  1,730.4  1,939.9  2,020.7  2,651.7  
% of GDP  29.6  30.9  31.0  35.4  45.1  61.7  
Source:  Fiji Bureau of Statistics; Reserve Bank  of Fiji (RBF) ; World Bank Indicators; IMF ; and information 
provided by the authorities.  
1.4.  Micro, small, and medium -sized enterprises (MSMEs) play a crucial role in Fiji's economy, 
account ing for over 18% of GDP , and provide employment for approximately 60% of the labour 
force.3 However , they face n umerous challenges, including remoteness from overseas markets, 
costs and availability of finance, and the frequency and magnitude of extreme weather episodes, 
such as cyclones, flooding, and tsunami, which frequently cause severe damage to the economy and  
infrastructure. The Asian Development Bank considers that Fiji's growth trajectory and the increasing 
urbanization over the past decade have also created growing environmental challenges, including 
the degradation of land resources, increased risk of floo ding to coastal settlements , and 
unsustainable exploitation of marine resources.4 
1.5.  According to the World Bank, Fiji's exposure to climate change threatens to undermine the 
country's long -term development objectives as stated in its current Development Pla n.5 The 
authorities indicate that several initiatives are in place to face the challenges posed by climate 
change , including a  National Adaptation Plan , which  was launched in 2018 to strengthen the 
country's resilience. In addition, Fiji's Low Emission De velopment Strategy outlines long -term 
sustainable and resilient economy -wide mitigation pathways through to 2050.  
1.6.  In September  2021, Fiji adopted the Climate Change Act. The Act legally binds Fiji to its 
commitment of net -zero carbon emissions by 2050. Fij i's emission reduction target focuses on the 
energy sector, specifically on electricity generation and transmission and demand -side energy 
efficiency. According to the authorities, among specific measures that are undertaken, subsidies are 
provided on envi ronmentally friendly items and on renewable energy products such as solar lamps, 
chargers , and batteries . 
1.2  Recent economic developments  
1.7.  On 20  February  2016, Tropical Cyclone Winston struck Fiji, destroying physical assets and 
severely undermining production of goods and services. According to the World Bank, it impacted 
over 60% of the total population of Fiji. While housing and transport were the hardest hit, the highest 
level of production losses occurred in agriculture (including sugar).6 Lower  activity was also reported 
 
3 Fiji Government  (2019), "Minister Kumar at the Launch of the Fiji Enterprise Engine (FEE) 
Programme",  15 March . Viewed at: https://www.fiji.gov.fj/Media -Centre/Speeches/English/MINISTER -KUMAR -
AT-THE-LAUNCH -OF-THE-FIJI-ENTERPRIS . 
4 Asian  Development Bank  (2021) , Fiji: Country Classification . Viewed at: 
https://www.adb.org/sites/default/files/institutional -document/753796/f iji-country -classification.pdf . 
5 World Bank  (2017) , Climate Vulnerability Assessment: Making Fiji Climate Resilient . Viewed at: 
https://openknowledge.worldbank.org/handle/10986/28870?show=full . 
6 World Bank  (2017) , Social Protection and Humanitarian Assistance Nexus for Disaster Response: 
Lessons Learnt from Fiji's Tropical Cyclone Winston . Viewed at: 
https://documents1.worldbank.org/curated/en/143591490296944528/pdf/113710 -NWP-PUBLIC -P159592-
1701.pdf . WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 11 - 
 
 in fishing and aquaculture. The cyclone caused damages amounting to nearly 20% of Fiji's GDP. 
However, the economy was resilient and grew by 2.2%.  
1.8.  Various stimulus packages, including Fiji National Provident Fund's Cyclone Winston Natural 
Disaster assistance and the  Government's Help for Homes initiative , were implemented. In addition, 
concessional loan packages offered by financial institutions post -cyclone, compounded by the 
expansionary 2016/2017 National Budget, notably VAT rate reduction from 15% to 9%, helped 
reinvigorate private consumption. Strong personal remittances also played a significant part in 
boosting consumption. Investment activitie s were strong, spurred by the post -cyclone reconstruction 
work.7 
1.9.  At the same time, the Reserve Bank of Fiji (RBF , the central bank) maintained an 
accommodative monetary policy with a low interest rate environment to support further growth in 
investments; the RBF's overnight policy rate was kept unchanged at 0.5% until 2020 . Consequently, 
new lending for investment and consumption purposes increased, further supported by favourable 
business and consumer sentiments. Real GDP grew further in 2017 and 2018. Fr om a sectoral 
perspective, economic activities were fuelled by the accommodation and food services, finance, and 
construction activities.  
1.10.   In 2019, real GDP contracted by 0.6%. While agriculture production, construction, wholesale , 
and retail activities inc reased and tourist arrivals rose, manufacturing, electricity supply , and 
transport activities decreased noticeably and contributed to the negative growth. Woodchip 
production fell by 25.6% and sugar output fell by 5.1% due to lower quality cane and mechani cal 
issues at the sugar mills.8 Investments also softened, as evidenced by the subdued lending to real 
estate and construction sectors.  Commercial banks' new lending for investment purposes declined 
by 16.7%, underpinned by lower lending to the real estat e (-9.8%) and building and construction 
(-28.3%) sectors.9 
1.11.   Fiji's economy, in the wake of the COVID -19 pandemic, further contracted in 2020 and 2021 
by 17% and 5.1%, respectively. The outturn was mostly driven by the significant fall in tourism 
activities and rippling effects to other economic activities. COVID -19 restrictions disrupted transport 
activities, especially air transport , as international borders were closed. In addition, wholesale and 
retail services and entertainment were affected w ith the imposition of social distancing measures, 
which significantly impacted domestic economic activities. There was also slowdown in the 
manufacturing sector mainly due to COVID -19-related supply chain disruption. Labour market 
conditions deteriorated, as a result of job losses in the tourism sector, and investments recorded 
sluggish performance amid low business confidence.  
1.12.   The Fiji Macroeconomic Committee eyes a gradual recovery in 2022 and 2023 that will depend 
on the scale of reopening and resumption  of tourism. The baseline scenario suggests a real GDP 
growth of 15.6% in 2022 and a further 6% in 2023.  
1.13.   The authorities appear to be cognizant of the numerous challenges affecting the economy. In 
November  2017, the y adopted a 20 -Year Development Plan (201 7-2036), which outlines the 
country's future development vision. It places emphasis on, inter alia, promoting MSMEs ' 
development, empowering youth and women, increasing resilience to climate change , and building 
an environmentally sustainable economy. It r elies on two pillars: (i) ensuring inclusive 
socio-economic development to improve living standards of citizen s; and (ii) promoting 
transformational strategic actions to maximize Fiji's potential.10 
1.14.   Along the same line s, a Five-Year Development Plan (2017 -2021) was adopted, highlighting 
more detailed action agendas with specific targets and policies that are aligned to the 20 -Year 
 
7 RBF (2017) , Annual Report 2016 -2017. Viewed at: https://www.rbf.gov.fj/category/annual -report/   
8 RBF (2020) , Annual Report 2018 -2019. Viewed at: https://www.rbf.gov.fj/category/annual -report/ . 
9 RBF (2020) , 2020 Economic Review . Viewed at: https://www.rbf.gov.fj/economic -review -december -
2020/ . 
10 Government of Fiji, National Development Plan . Viewed at: 
https://www.fiji.gov.fj/getattachment/15b0ba03 -825e-47f7-bf69-094ad33004dd/5 -Year-20-Year-NATIONAL -
DEVELOPMENT -PLAN.aspx . WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 12 - 
 
 Development Plan. The Plan was translated into individual sector development plans to be 
implemented between 2017 and 2022 .  
1.15.   Efforts were also underway on the front of macroeconomic policies. The RBF pursued, as 
spelled out by the RBF Act (1983), the conduct of Fiji's monetary policy by influencing interest rates, 
with a view to achieving two objectives : (i) ensure price stab ility, i.e. maintaining average inflation 
rates at around 3 %-5%; and (ii)  maintain an adequate level of foreign reserves , i.e. sufficient to 
cover at least four months of import payments.  
1.16.   During the review period, the RBF continued with its accommodative m onetary policy stance 
by keeping its policy rate at 0.5%, with a view to providing necessary stimulus for the economy in 
light of weaker international and domestic conditions. However, as the pandemic hit harder on 
international travel, trade and consumer and business sentiments further weakened, and the RBF 
reduced the policy rate to 0.25% in March  2020. The RBF also established its funding of the Disaster 
Rehabilitation and Containment Facility (DRCF) of FJD  150 million  to ensure that businesses affected 
by the pandemic are able to access cheaper credit. In addition, according to the authorities, in 2020 
the RBF increased the Import Substitution and Export Financing Facility (ISEFF) allocation to 
FJD 300 million to provide credit to exporters, farmers, pub lic transportation, and renewable energy 
businesses. Furthermore, the RBF invested FJD  300 million  in government bonds to assist the 
Government to meet its financing needs. Monetary policy remained complementary to fiscal policy, 
which was also expansionar y with an emphasis on tax cuts. In October  2021, the RBF reduced 
interest rates for ISEFF and DRCF to support credit activity. The RBF maintained the policy rate at 
0.25% in 2022 to support the economy's recovery amid a high inflation environment.  
1.17.   Inflatio n was relatively high (with average annual rates over 3%) in 2016 -18 (Table  1.1), led 
by higher food, yaqona (Fiji's traditional drink) , and fuel prices. The impact of the cyclone in 
April 2016, followed by a flood in December, and the increase in global c rude oil prices were the 
main drivers of inflation in Fiji. Higher excise taxes on tobacco and alcohol, which were introduced 
in 2018, also played their part in exacerbating inflation. However, as supply conditions started to 
normalize in 2019, the average  annual inflation rate decrease d to 1.8%. In 2020, inflation fell into 
the negative territory, on the account of falling food prices, as the Government implemented a tariff 
reduction on food products , and lower oil prices in a context of sluggish economic activities. However, 
owing to th e projected pace of recovery in 2021, pandemic -induced supply chain disruptions and 
higher freight costs, inflation pressures have increased in 2022. The authorities indicate that annual 
average inflation rose to 4.3% in 2022, largely influenced by the spi ll-over of higher prices in Fiji's 
major trading partners combined with supply -side constraints induced by ongoing geopolitical 
tensions.  
1.18.   Fiscal deficit, as a proportion of GDP, increased slightly between 2016 and 2017 due to 
post-cyclone stimulus packages , and worsened in 2018. This reflected large spending in 2018 amid 
reconstruction efforts, following Tropical Cyclone Winston and general elections -related outlays at 
the end of the year. The authorities consider that higher salaries and wages, operating g rants and 
transfers , and increased transfer payments on capital construction underpin the higher -than-usual 
deficit.11 Fiji's overall fiscal situation worsened in the wake of the COVID -19 pandemic, with a 
sizeable fiscal deficit in 2020 and 2021. High loan  guarantees to public enterprises, in a precarious 
economic context, further added to pressures on public deficit. Similarly, tax cuts to support the 
private sector and bolster economic activities significantly reduced the overall revenue envelope. 
Consequ ently, public debt has increased swiftly since 2019. However, the IMF considers that Fiji's 
debt framework benefits from mitigating factors, such as the limited share of debt in foreign currency 
and the high amount of foreign assets. In 2020, Fiji held abo ut 37.4% of GDP in stock of foreign 
assets.12 
1.19.   The current account deficit stood 8.4% of GDP in 2018, a higher deficit compared to the 
previous years, driven by soaring imports of transportation equipment and higher oil prices. The 
deficit significantly inc reased in 2020 and 2021, due to a sharp drop in the services balance from 
the loss in tourism. In general, the overall deficit was attenuated by the influx of external financial 
flows (loans and grants), strong growth in remittances, and the SDR allocation  in 2021 (Table  1.2). 
 
11 RBF (2018) , Annual Report 2017 -2018. Viewed at: https://www.rbf.gov.fj/category/annual -report/ . 
12 IMF (2021) , Republic of Fiji : Staff Report for the Article  IV Consultation , IMF Country Report 
No. 21/257 . Viewed at: https://www.imf.org/en/Publications/CR/Issues/2021/12/03/Republic -of-Fiji-2021-
Article -IV-Consultation -Press -Release -Staff-Report -and-Statement -by-510770 .  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 13 - 
 
 Fiji also continued to maintain various exchange and capital controls, which were further tightened 
at the onset of the COVID -19 outbreak. The authorities made changes to the exchange controls to 
cope with the crisis. These measures b ear the risk of hindering international trade and foreign direct 
investment  (FDI) .13 
Table  1.2 Balance of payments, 2016 -21 
(USD million)  
    2016  2017  2018  2019  2020  2021  
Current account  -177.8  -355.4  -471.5  -698.1  -614.1  -687.6  
Goods and services balance  -191.7  -265.1  -432.7  -569.7  -747.1  -1,172.5   
Goods balance  -998.7  -1,091.6  -1,358.6  -1,388.1  -660.0  -946.7   
  Exports  921.8  987.1  1,003.6  1,026.3  819.3  887.5   
  Imports  1,920.6  2,078.6  2,362.3  2,414.3  1,479.1  1,834.1   
Services balance  807.0  826.5  926.0  818.4  -87.1 -225.8   
  Credit  1,382.5  1,480.1  1,656.7  1,610.1  410.9  283.8   
  Debit 575.5  653.6  730.7  791.8  498.0  509.6  
Primary income  -273.9  -423.8  -358.5  -451.7  -281.6  -250.5   
Credit  72.3 77.5 69.4 61.6 61.8 61.7  
   Investment income  24.4 39.4 37.0 32.3 30.7 33.5  
Debit 346.2  501.3  427.9  513.2  343.4  312.2   
   Investment income  339.5  493.6  420.1  506.0  339.5  305.2  
Secondary income  287.8  333.5  319.7  323.3  414.5  735.4   
Credit  372.4  423.3  423.7  418.0  495.3  821.7   
  General government  63.5 86.0 97.3 88.0 103.4  221.3   
  Personal transfers  224.5  240.7  257.7  257.3  286.1  365.4   
  Other current transfers  84.4 96.6 68.8 72.8 105.8  235.1   
Debit 84.6 89.8 104.0  94.7 80.8 86.3  
  General government  4.3 4.9 3.8 3.3 2.4 3.4  
  Personal transfers  6.3 7.3 7.9 4.0 3.6 5.2  
  Other current transfers  74.0 77.6 92.3 87.4 74.8 77.7 
Capital account  4.3 4.4 5.0 3.2 3.5 3.2 
Financial account  
(excluding reserve assets)  -309.2  -505.5  -671.0  -646.1  -346.5  -789.2  
 
Direct investment  -408.1  -389.2  -472.5  -358.5  -225.9  -377.7   
   Net acquisition of financial assets  -16.4 -1.6 -3.6 -36.2 13.5 32.2  
   Net incurrence of liabilities  391.6  387.6  468.9  322.3  239.4  409.9   
Portfolio investment  29.4 42.4 35.1 -17.2 179.6  24.0  
   Net acquisition of financial assets  15.4 42.4 54.7 22.1 25.7 24.0  
   Net incurrence of liabilities  -14.0 0.0 19.7 39.3 -154.0  0.0  
Other investment  69.5 -158.6  -233.6  -270.4  -300.2  -435.5   
   Net acquisition of financial assets  -48.6 56.5 -219.7  28.3 -67.5 77.6  
     Debt instruments  -48.3 56.5 -219.7  28.3 -67.5 77.6 
       Net incurrence of liabilities  -118.2  215.1  13.9 298.7  232.7  513.1   
Special drawing rights 
(allocations)  0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 134.1  
 
     Other debt instruments  -118.2  215.1  13.9 298.7  232.7  379.0  
Net errors and omission  -142.6  13.5 -330.9  141.6  246.6  387.3  
Overall balance  -7.0 168.0  -126.4  92.8 -17.5 492.1  
Source:  IMF, IMF Data: A ccess to Macroeconomic & Financial Data. 
1.20.   The exchange rate of the Fiji dollar is linked to a basket of currencies of Fiji's five major trading 
partners: the US, Australian, and New  Zealand  dollars; the euro; and the Japanese yen. The weights 
used in the basket, based mainly on the value of trade and external debt, are reviewed on an annual 
basis. The exchange rate of the Fiji dollar against the US dollar, the intervention currency, is 
determined daily by the RBF in relation to the currency basket. The RBF considers that Fiji's excha nge 
rate regime provides a nominal anchor, which facilitates international trade by shielding importers 
and exporters against exchange rate risk14; it also contributes to maintaining the stability of real 
effective exchange rate and hence external competit iveness. The Fiji dollar depreciated on average 
in real effective terms during the review period, reflecting somewhat Fiji's lower inflation relative to 
its trading partners. Foreign exchange reserves covered more than four months of imports.  
 
13 RBF, Exchange Co ntrol. Viewed at: https://www.rbf.gov.fj/markets/exchange -control/ ; and Exchange 
Control Guidelines . Viewed at: https://www.rbf.gov.fj/markets/exchange -control/ec -guidelines/ . 
14 RBF (2021), Annual Report 2020 -2021. Viewed at: https://www.rbf.gov.fj/rbf -annual -report -august -
2021-july-2022/ . WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 14 - 
 
 1.3  Developments in trade and investment  
1.3.1   Trends and patterns in merchandise and services trade  
1.21.   The exposure of Fiji's economy to international merchandise trade (imports and exports) 
remains significant, although it fluctuated significantly during the review period. While the share of 
exports and imports in GDP stood at 97% in 2016 and 2017, this ratio jumped to over 100% in 2018 
and 2019 before falling significantly in 2020 in the wake of the COVID -19 pandemic.  
1.22.   During the review period, Fiji's export performance was on a decreasing trend in comparison 
to the previous Review. While the COVID -19 pandemic put further pressure on the economy as a 
whole, and on export activities in particular, pre -COVID -19 figures show that the country was already 
exporting fewer  products in comparison to the 2012-14 period. The downfall of the sugar industry 
seems to have contributed to the lower export performance.  
1.23.   Re-export activities remain important in Fiji's international trade. They accounted for over 
40% of total exports f rom 2016 to 2019, before falling to around 36% in 2020 and 32% in 2021. 
Petroleum products are the top re -exports (Table  A1.1) as most Pacific Islands  do not have the 
storage capacity to import petroleum and thus rely on Fiji as a trans -shipment hub , which  first 
import s petroleum and then re -export s it to regional counterparts. Other major re -exports include 
fish and machinery and transport equipment.15 
1.24.   The composition of Fiji's total merchandise exports (including re -exports) has remained 
broadly unchanged . Primary agricultural products and agri -food preparations, in particular mineral 
water, fish products, sugar , coconut oil, fruits , and vegetables , remain the main export products 
(Chart  1.1 and Table  A1.2). Exports of fish products, mainly preserved fish,  were on a decreasing 
trend since 2016.  
1.25.   Mineral products, of which a significant share is re -exported, also play an important part in 
Fiji's export activities. In 2020 and 2021 , however, their share stood at 13.8% and 12%, respectively 
(down from 22.1% in 2018 and 20.4% in 2019). Exports of wood, cork , and straw almost doubled 
between 2016 and 2021.  
 
15 RBF, Fiji and International Trade . Viewed at: https://www.rbf.gov.fj/fiji -and-international -trade/ . WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 15 - 
 
 Chart 1.1 Composition of merchandise trade by main HS section/chapter, 2016 and 2021   
 
Source:  WTO Secretariat calculations, based on UN Comtrade database.  
1.26.   The geographical distribution of exports has not undergone noticeable changes since the 
previous Review. The  United  States  continues to be the top destination of Fiji 's exports (Chart  1.2 
and Table  A1.3), followed by Australia. Trends in bilateral merchandise flows between Fiji and its 
top partners (United  States , Australia , and New  Zealand ) have further consoli dated.  
Chart 1.1  Composition of merchandise trade by main HS sections/chapters, 2016 and 2021
2016 2021
Imports
Source:  WTO Secretariat calculations, based on UN Comtrade database.Other 
18.1%Live animals 
& products
6.5%
Base metals & articles 
thereof 6.9%
ExportsPlastics & rubber
5.5%Chemicals
5.9%
Wood & articles
of wood  3.3%
Mineral products
19.9%Total:  USD 2,301.7 million Total:  USD 2,115.6 million
Total:  USD 922.0 million Total: USD 815.3 millionPrep. food, beverages
& tobacco 5.0%Other
16.8%
Prepared food, 
beverages & tobacco
24.7%Gold
6.3%Machinery; electrical 
equipment 6.2% Vegetable products
5.1%
Textiles & textile 
articles 6.2%Mineral products 
15.9%Vegetable products
5.6%
Transport 
equipment
12.1%Transport 
equipment
13.0%Live animals
& products
5.1%
Chemicals
7.6%Mineral products
17.1%
Mineral products
12.0%Chemicals
4.1%Vegetable products
8.7%
Prepared food, 
beverages & tobacco
28.6%Other
13.0%
Textiles & textile
articles 5.3%Gold 
7.2%
Wood & articles 
of wood 7.1%Chemicals
2.7%Fish & crustaceans
13.3%Fish & crustaceans
8.6%Other
12.3%
Machinery; electrical 
equipment 5.4%Vegetable products
7.1%
Prep. food, beverages
& tobacco 6.2%
Plastics & rubber
6.2%Base metals & articles 
thereof 6.2%Machinery; 
electrical equipment
18.4%Machinery; 
electrical equipment
14.6%WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 16 - 
 
 Chart  1.2 Direction of merchandise trade, 2016 and 2021  
 
Note:  "Other" under exports include s "Bunkers" (ship stores and aircraft supplies ), which consist mostly of 
fuels and food.  
Source:  WTO Secretar iat calculations, based on UN Comtrade database.  
1.27.   During the review period, imports were broadly comparable in value with those of the previous 
Review, but with an increasing trend. The COVID -19 pandemic took a noticeable toll on import 
performance, with a significant drop in imports between 2019 and 2020. However, figures from 2021 
show that import activities have started to firm up.  
1.28.   The composition of imports remained broadly the same during the review period. The leading 
import categories are food products, petroleum products, machinery and electrical equipment, and 
transport equipment (Chart  1.1 and Table  A1.4).  
1.29.   The bulk of Fiji's imports  continues to be sourced from Asia and Oceania, which supply some 
85% of the country's demand (Chart  1.2 and Table  A1.5). In 2019, however, France exceptionally 
accounted for over 13.9% of Fiji's imports , and in 2021, the United  States  accounted for 10.6%, up 
from 2.8% in 2016, due to increased imports of airplanes and other aircrafts and medical appliances.  
1.30.   Fiji actively participates in trade in intermediate goods. In aggregate, intermediate goods 
accounted for 36.2% of Fiji's total imports in 2021. The textile s and textile articles industries are the 
top rec ipient s of intermediate goods, which are mainly sourced from China and Australia (Chart  1.3). 
Export f igures indicate that in 2021, 89.2% of exported textile s and textile articles were consumer 
goods , suggesting that Fiji adds value domestically before exp orting.  
Chart 1.2   Direction of merchandise trade, 2016 and 2021
2016 2021
Imports
Source:  UNSD Comtrade database.Other 
3.6%
China
15.2%
Japan
6.9%
Australia
17.4%
ExportsSingapore
15.4%New Zealand
17.5%New Zealand
14.8%United States
10.6%
Singapore
17.1%Australia
16.9%Japan
3.1%EU-27
3.0%
China
15.0%
United States
18.3%
Europe
6.9%
Japan
3.1%
New Zealand
7.0%Samoa
2.5%Other
7.4%
United States
20.5%
Europe
2.7%Other 
14.3%
Kiribati
3.1%
New Zealand
8.2%Total:  USD 2,301.7 million Total:  USD 2,115.6 million
Total:  USD 922.0 million Total: USD 815.3 millionUnited 
States
2.8%Other
1.7%
Australia
16.5%Other Asia/Oceania
16.7%Other Asia/Oceania
9.4%
Japan  
4.0%
Australia
15.0%Other Asia/
Oceania
19.0%Other Asia/
Oceania
16.2%
Note:  "Other" under exports include "Bunkers" being ship stores and aircraft supplies, which consist mostly of
fuels and food.Vanuatu
4.2%China
5.7%
Vanuatu
3.6%
Tonga  
5.8%EU-27
3.1%
Thailand 2.7%
Thailand 2.6% India 2.7%
India 2.2% Malaysia
3.0%Malaysia
2.4%
China
5.1%
Tonga 
4.2%Kiribati 
3.4%Samoa
3.5%WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 17 - 
 
 Chart  1.3 Main trading partners for textiles and textile articles (HS Section  11), by 
end-use, 2021  
(% of total)  
 
Source:  WTO Secretariat calculations, based on UN Comtrade database.  
1.31.   In services trade, Fiji's traditional positive trade balance turned negative in 2020 and 2021 , 
driven by pandemic -led restrictions on the international travel and transportation industry  (Fiji's 
main services export categories ) (Table  1.3). 
Table  1.3 Composition of trade in services, 2016 -21 
  2016  2017  2018  2019  2020  2021  
Total credit (USD  million)  1,382.5  1,480.1  1,656.7  1,610.1  410.9  283.8   
(% of total credit)  
Manufacturing services on physical inputs 
owned by others  0.6  0.5  0.5  0.4  2.4  2.5  
Maintenance and repair  0.3  0.4  0.2  0.2  0.9  1.1  
Transportation  24.5  25.4  30.1  30.0  34.1  29.9  
  Passenger  19.6  20.4  24.2  23.8  20.9  11.0  
  Freight  1.2  1.2  1.1  1.3  3.3  5.5  
  Postal and courier services  3.8  3.8  4.8  4.9  10.0  13.5  
Travel  63.5  63.6  58.5  59.7  36.7  12.2  
  Business  4.7  4.4  3.8  3.8  1.9  0.6  
  Personal  58.8  59.2  54.7  55.9  34.8  11.7  
Construction  1.0  0.3  0.1  0.5  0.7  0.8  
Insurance and pension  0.0  0.0  0.0  0.0  0.0  0.0  
Financial service  0.4  1.0  0.3  0.3  0.6  0.8  
Charges for the use of intellectual property  0.1  0.1  0.1  0.0  0.0  0.0  
Telecommunication, computer and 
information  1.6  1.7  1.8  1.4  3.6  4.4  
Other business services  1.7  1.0  1.4  1.1  4.0  8.1  
Personal, cultural and recreational services  0.0  0.0  0.0  0.0  0.0  0.0  
Government services  6.4  6.0  7.2  6.4  16.9  40.1  
Total debit (USD  million)  575.5  653.6  730.7  791.8  498.0  509.6   
(% of total debit)  
Maintenance and repair  0.6  0.5  0.4  0.4  0.5  0.7  
Transportation  52.7  52.5  52.8  50.2  44.9  48.1  
  Passenger  1.8  1.6  1.5  1.2  0.4  0.2  
  Freight  42.3  38.9  39.8  37.0  34.3  39.8  
  Postal and courier services  8.6  12.1  11.5  12.0  10.3  8.2  
Travel  18.9  19.6  20.3  20.8  15.0  14.4  
  Business  1.0  1.0  1.1  1.1  0.7  0.7  
  Personal  17.9  18.5  19.3  19.7  14.3  13.7  
Construction  0.5  1.0  1.8  2.3  1.8  0.9  
Insurance and pension  6.6  6.4  6.8  6.7  8.5  8.7  
Financial service  0.2  0.2  0.2  0.3  1.5  1.4  
USD 38.3 million
USD 4.6 millionUSD 35.8 million
USD 49.5 million
0102030405060708090100
Imports Exports Imports ExportsChart 1.[FJI]   Main trading partners for textile and texile articles (HS Section 11), by end -use, 2021
Source:  WTO calculations, based on UNSD Comtrade database.Consumer goods Intermediate goods(% of total)
India
New ZealandAustraliaChina
Hong Kong, China
VanuatuSamoa
Solomon IslandsKiribatiWT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 18 - 
 
   2016  2017  2018  2019  2020  2021  
Charges for the use of intellectual property  1.0  1.2  0.9  0.8  1.2  0.4  
Telecommunication, computer and 
information  6.0  6.1  4.9  4.5  6.3  6.6  
Other business services  10.0  9.8  9.3  11.8  17.1  16.3  
Personal, cultural and recreational services  0.5  0.5  0.7  0.4  0.5  0.4  
Government services  2.8  2.2  1.9  1.9  2.8  1.9  
Source:  IMF, IMF Data: A ccess to Macroeconomic & Financial Data. 
1.3.2   Trends and patterns in FDI  
1.32.   FDI continues to play an important role in Fiji's economy, as it contributes to growth through 
complementing domestic investment, as well as transfer of technology and expertise. During the 
review period, FDI inflows remained lar gely unchanged in 2016 and 2017; they picked up in 2018 
in the context of a favourable business sentiment ( Section  1.2) before easing in 2019 and 2020 in 
the wake of a gloomy global economic outlook and pandemic -related restrictions.  
1.33.   In 2021, Fiji attracte d significant FDI, as interest rates were low globally, and the country and 
the global economy progressively recovered from the pandemic (Table  1.4). 
Table  1.4 FDI, 2016 -21 
  2016  2017  2018  2019  2020  2021  
FDI inflows (USD  million)  389.8  386.2  471.0  321.0  240.5  401.0  
FDI inward stock (USD  million)  4,080.4  4,625.1  4,889.2  5,206.2  5,730.3  5,908.5  
   % of GDP  82.8 86.4 87.6 95.0 128.0  137.5  
FDI outflows (USD  million)  -16.4 -1.6 -3.6 -36.0 13.6 34.8 
FDI outward stock (USD  million)  96.0 98.0 90.3 53.9 71.3 103.3  
   % of GDP  1.9 1.8 1.6 1.0 1.6 2.4 
Source:  UNCTAD  (2022) , World Investment Report 2022 . 
1.34.   According to the authorities, FDI is concentrated in the tourism and banking services sector s. 
In 2021, there was FDI in the energy industry, as Energy Fiji Ltd sold 44% of its shares to a Japanese 
consortium.WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 19 - 
 
 2  TRADE AND INVESTMENT REGIMES  
2.1  General framework  
2.1.  Under the 2013 Constitution of the Republic of Fiji, sole legislative authority lies in a 
single -chamber Parliament with 55 seats. Parliamentarians are elected for a four -year period. T he 
President is the head of State. The Prime Minister is the head of the Government, which exercises 
executive power. The judiciary is independent of the Parliam ent and the Government, with judicial 
power vested in the following courts: Supreme Court, Court of Appeal, High Court, Magistrates Court, 
and such other courts or tribunals as created by law.  
2.2.  There was a general election on 14  December  2022; following the election, a new coalition 
government was formed. As a result, inter alia, the Department of Town and Country Planning, the 
Department of Transport and Tourism Unit previously under the Ministry of Commerce, Trade, 
Tourism and Transport (M CTTT) was moved to other relevant ministries, and t he previous MCTTT 
was reorganized as the Ministry of Trade, Co -operatives, and Small and Medium Enterprises 
(MTCSME); and the Prime Minister became responsible for foreign affairs, climate change, 
environm ent, civil service, information , public enterprises, and veteran affairs.1 
2.2  Trade policy formulation and objectives  
2.3.  The MTCSME is responsible for formulating and implementing Fiji's external trade policy. It is 
also responsible for industry, investment, co -operative businesses, micro and small enterprises, 
metrology, standards, and consumer protection, and all trade negotiations.2 The MTCSME consults 
with trade -related agencies such as the Reserve Bank of Fiji (RBF), and other ministries including 
the Office of the Prime Minister (which is in charge of areas including public enterprises, climate 
change, and environment); the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; the Minis try of Agriculture; the Ministry 
of Sugar Industry; the Ministry of Fisheries; the Ministry of Forestry; the Ministry of Rural and 
Maritime Development; the Ministry of Communications; the Ministry of Lands and Mineral 
Resources; the Ministry of Employment , Productivity and Industrial Relations; the Ministry of Public 
Works, Transport, and Meteorological Services; the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation; and the 
Ministry of Finance, Strategic Planning, National Development and Statistics. Consultations a re 
carried out mainly through semi -regular meetings of the Cabinet -mandated inter -ministerial Trade 
and Development Committee (TDC).3 
2.4.  Formally and informally, the private sector and civil society continue to interact with the 
Government through, inter alia, consultations concerning the national budget, and the Fiji Revenue 
and Customs Service Business Reform Committee and the Macroeconomic Technical Subcommittee 
(with semi -annual consultations with the private sector in preparation for the National Account s 
forecasting rounds). The Fiji Trade Policy Framework (FTPF) 2015 -2025, issued in 2015, continues 
to set out a structure for such interaction and for the implementation of its policy recommendations 
and other trade -related issues. The FTPF 2015 -2025 is cu rrently under review; the authorities 
indicate that it will be finalized this year.  
2.5.  The National Development Plan, issued in 2017, sets out both short -term (2017 -21) and 
long-term (2017 -36) plans with a view to pursuing progressive, vibrant, and inclusive society. The 
Plan is currently under review.  
2.6.  The National Economic Summit is to be held on 20 -21 April 2023; the aim of the Summit is to 
create a collective national vision with adequate sectoral policies and an implementation framework 
for the Government' s plant to chart a path towards economic recovery. The Summit is also to set 
out the foundation of the upcoming National Development Plan. The authorities consider that the 
Summit is a consultative and collaborative approach towards policy formulation; the  thematic areas 
 
1 Parliament of the Republic of Fiji , Members of Parliament . Viewed at: 
https://www.parliament.gov.fj/members -of-parliament/ .  
2 Within the MTCSME, the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) Fiji is responsible for 
formulating, implementing, and enhancing new and existing policies and strategies for the development of 
MSMEs, such as facilitating business training, mentoring, advi sory, incubation services , and access to finance, 
as well as monitoring and evaluating the implementation of MSME -related projects.  
3 There is a "focused" TDC , which comprises government representatives, while an "extended" TDC 
includes private -sector stak eholders.  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 20 - 
 
 of macroeconomic management, key growth sectors, governance and reforms, human development, 
rural and outer island development, land -based activities, marine, indigenous participation in water 
resource management , transport, and energy are identified to achieve the Government's 
overarching objective of inclusive economic security, social justice, conscientious governance, 
political stability, indigenous participation in development , and environmental sustainability.  
2.7.  The National Export Strat egy continues to serve as a guideline to achieve sustainable growth 
in export competitiveness, value addition, and diversification; the Strategy is currently under review, 
and the National Economic Summit set s the foundation of the upcoming Strategy. The S trategy, 
administered and implemented by the MTCSME, provides grant funding targeted to businesses that 
are currently exporting or will export.  
2.8.  Since 2016, new trade -related laws have been adopted in several  areas (Table  A2.1). Fiji's 
legislation is published in the Government Gazette, and on an online platform of laws, which was 
launched in 2016.4 
2.3  Trade agreements and arrangements  
2.3.1   WTO  
2.9.  Fiji is an original Member of the WTO. It grants at least MFN treatment to all  of its trading 
partners. It is neither a party to the Information Technology Agreement (ITA) nor to the plurilateral 
Agreements on Government Procurement (GPA) and Trade in Civil Aircraft.  
2.10.   On 1 May 2017, Fiji ratified the Agreement on Trade Facilitation (TFA) and A mendment to the 
Agreement on Trade -Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS). As at September  2022, 
Fiji fulfilled 97.1% of its TFA implementation commitments. The two remaining commitments 
concern test procedures for goods declared for impor tation (definitive implementation date: 
31 December  2023)5 and the establishment of a single window (31  December  2025).6 Fiji has 
established a Test Procedures Working Group under the National Trade Facilitation Committee, which 
has developed a Position Paper and an initial work plan to undertake a scoping and gap analysis. 
The authorities indicate that Fiji still requires assistance to develop the second testing requirements, 
such as specifics of laboratory requirements and accreditation to achieve compl iance7; Fiji also 
requires technical assistance and funding to implement a National Single Window System. The 
authorities also state that while the development of a Single Window Blueprint is currently in 
progress with the assistance of UNCTAD, further fi nancial and technical assistance is required to roll 
out the implementation of the Single Window in Fiji.  
2.11.   The authorities state that Fiji fully supports, and is committed to, the multilateral trading 
system. Its main interests include further liberalizing trade in agricultural products by substantially 
reducing domestic support by developed countries, eliminating export subsidies by developed 
countries, and reducing tariffs and non -tariff barriers (NTBs) on products of export interest to Fiji; 
reducing or e liminating tariffs and NTBs on industrial products, particularly of export interest for 
developing countries; reaching a satisfactory agreement on GATS mode 4 (labour mobility); 
clarifying and improving rules on contingency trade measures, regional trade a greements (RTAs) , 
and the dispute settlement understanding; strengthening all special and differential treatment 
provisions by making them precise, effective , and operational; and further protection of intellectual 
property rights, and implementation of tr ade facilitation reforms. In WTO negotiations, Fiji is part of 
the Small, Vulnerable Economies (SVEs) group, the ACP Group, Friends of Fish, and one of the 
so-called " W52" sponsors.8 At the 12th WTO Ministerial Conference  (MC12) , Fiji, as the Chair of the 
Pacific Group, urged WTO Members to make progress on the Fisheries Subsidies negotiations and in 
 
4 Office of the Attorney -General, The Laws of Fiji . Viewed at: https://www.laws.gov.fj .  
5 TFA, Article  5.3. 
6 TFA, Article  10.4. 
7 The authorities state that initial assistance has been provided by World Bank Group, New  Zealand  
Ministry of Primary Industries (NZMPI), and Pacific Horticultural and Agricultural Market Access Program 
(PHAMA Plus ).  
8 Fiji sponsors a proposal for "modalities" in negotiations on geographical indications (establishing a 
multilateral register for wines and spirits, and extending the higher level of protection beyond wines and 
spirits) and "disclosure" (requiring patent ap plicants to disclose the origin of genetic resources and traditional 
knowledge used in the inventions).  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 21 - 
 
 discussions on WTO responses to the COVID -19 pandemic to help combat the ongoing pandemic, 
transition into recovery mode, and prepa re for future pandemics.9 
2.12.   The authorities state that Fiji played a major role in achieving the Partial Agreement on 
Fisheries Subsidies at MC12 . As fisheries is one of the largest economic sectors in the Pacific region, 
and is intertwined with Fiji's culture, day -to-day living, and the livelihood and survival of the people 
of Fiji, it considered that any multilateral agreement on fisheries should  have the interest of the 
Pacific Island  countrie s at the front and centre, not as an afterthought. The authorities are proud 
that Fiji had a major influence in delivering the Fisheries Subsidies Agreement, agreed at MC12, as 
an historic achievement.  
2.13.   The a uthorities also state that Fiji has taken the initiative to bring to the forefront the impact 
of climate change through its leadership at various international fora; it introduced the Informal 
Dialogue on Plastic Pollution and Environmentally Sustainable P lastic Trade (IDP) at the Committee 
on Trade and Environment in 2020. Fiji also participates in the Trade and Environmental 
Sustainability Structured Discussions and the Fossil Fuel Subsidies Reform Initiative.  
2.14.   Fiji was not a complainant, respondent, or th ird party to any dispute during the review period.  
2.15.   During the review period, Fiji made several WTO notifications (Table  2.1). As at 
14 February  2023, some notifications concerning, inter alia, agriculture, anti -dumping measures, 
subsidies and countervailing measures, and import licensing remained outstanding .10 
Table  2.1 Fiji's notifications, 2016 -23 
Agreement  Requirement  Periodicity  WTO documents  
GATT  1994  
Article  XXIV:7(a)  RTA  Ad hoc   WT/REG408/N/1, 
26 October  2020 
Agreement on Agriculture  
Articles 10 and 
18.2 Export subsidies (ES:1)  Annual  G/AG/N/FJI/12, 4  March  2016 
Articles 18.2 and 
18.3 Domestic support (DS:1)  Annual  G/AG/N/FJI/13, 9  March  2016 
 
Agreement on Trade Facilitation  
Articles  15 and 
16 Notification on category A, B and C 
commitments  Ad hoc   WT/PCTF/N/FJI/1, 
23 January  2017 
Article  16.1(b)  Definitive dates for implementation 
of commitments (category B and C)  Ad hoc   G/TFA/N/FJI/1, 7  June 2018 
G/TFA/N/FJI/1/Add.1, 
30 August  2019 
Article  22.3 Requests for trade 
facilitation -related assistance and 
support for capacity -building  Ad hoc  G/TFA/N/FJI/2, 10  July 2019 
Agreement on Trade -Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights  
Article  63.2 Laws and regulations, and final 
judicial decisions and administrative 
rulings of general application 
relating to the TRIPS  Agreement  Ad hoc   IP/N/1/ FJI/2,3,4,7, 
14 March  2016 
IP/N/1/ FJI/1,5,8, 15  March  2016 
IP/N/1/ FJI/6,9, 16  March  2016 
Agreement on Rules of Origin  
Paragraph 4 of 
Annex  II Notification of existing or new 
preferential rules of origin  Ad hoc  G/RO/N/211, 4  February  2021 
Source:  Compi led by the WTO Secretariat  based on notification documents.  
2.3.2   Regional  and preferential agreements  
2.16.   Fiji views regional integration as a key stepping  stone towards fuller participation in the 
increasingly liberalized global economy. As a Pacific Island  country with a small market, Fiji considers 
that its RTAs will help increase market access and investment inflows in support of its economic 
diversificat ion efforts.  
 
9 WTO document WT/Min(22)/14, 13  June 2022. 
10 WTO documents G/L/223/ Rev. 30, 23  February  2023. WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 22 - 
 
 2.17.   Fiji has five RTAs in force: (i)  South Pacific Regional Trade and Economic Cooperation 
Agreement (SPARTECA); (ii)  Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG); (iii)  Pacific Island Countries Trade 
Agreement (PICTA); (iv)  Interim Economic Partnership Agree ment (IEPA) EU –Pacific States; and 
(v) Interim Economic Partnership Agreement between the United  Kingdom –Pacific States, which was 
signed in March  2019 and has been applied provisionally ever since.  
2.18.   During the review period, on 14  March  2019, Fiji signed a n Interim Economic Partnership with 
the United  Kingdom  to replicate the IEPA  with the European  Union , with a view to avoiding any trade 
disruption due to the United  Kingdom 's withdrawal from the European  Union . The Agreement ha s 
been applied on a provision al basis since signature, and fully entered into effect on 1  January  2021 
when the United  Kingdom 's transition period ended.  Some of the main features of RTAs that were 
signed or entered into force are summarized in Table  2.2. 
Table  2.2 RTAs that were signed or entered into force during the review period  
Cook Islands –Fiji–Kiribati –Micronesia –Nauru–Niue–Papua New Guinea –Samoa –
Solomon  Islands –Tonga–Tuvalu–Vanuatu  
Title Pacific Island Countries Trade Agreement (PICTA)  
Parties  Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Micronesia, Nauru, Niue, Papua New Guinea, 
Samoa, Solomon  Islands , Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu  
Date of signature/entry into 
force 18 August  2001/13  April 2003 (although dates of signature and of entry 
into force are specific to each PICTA member)  
End of transition period  2021 
Services  Not included. However, it is expected that the coverage of PICTA will 
expand to include trade in services, movement of capital and labour  
Selected features  Covers trade in goods except trade in alcohol and tobacco products. 
Government procurement is also excluded. The Agreement also provides a 
list of exceptions to ensure that the Forum Island Countries (FICs) can 
continue to restrict trade for the usual range of reasons generally allowed 
in international trade agreements. This includes the prohibition of 
dangerous goods (e.g. explosi ves or restriction of trade necessary to 
protect human or animal health)  
WTO consideration status  Factual presentation not distributed  
WTO document series  WT/COMTD/N/29, 17  September  2008; and WT/COMTD/21, 
7 October  1999 
Papua New Guinea/Fiji/Samoa/Solomon Island -European  Union  
Title European  Union  (EU)-Pacific States Interim Economic Partnership 
Agreement  
Parties  European  Union , Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon  Islands  
Date of signature/entry into 
force  European  Union  and Papua New Guinea signed on 30  July 2009, Fiji on 
11 December  2009, Samoa on 21  December  2018, Solomon Island on 
17 May 2020/ Provisional application started on 20  December  2009 for the 
European  Union  and Papua New Guinea, on 28  July 2014 for Fiji, on 
21 December  2018 for Samoa, and on 17  May 2020 for Solomon Island.  
End of transition period  2023 (Papua New Guinea and Fiji), 2037 (Samoa and Solomon  Islands ) 
Services  Not included  
Selected features  Customs and trade facilitation; TBT; SPS; dispute settlement; and 
institutional provisions.  In 2017, the EU preferential purchase agreement 
on sugar from Fiji expired .  
WTO consideration status  Factual presentation not distributed  
WTO document series  WT/REG302, WT/REG408  
Papua New Guinea/Fiji -United  Kingdom  
Title United  Kingdom  (UK)-Pacific States Interim Economic Partnership 
Agreement  
Parties  Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon  Islands , United  Kingdom  
Date of signature/entry into 
force  Signed between the United  Kingdom , Papua New Guinea , and Fiji on 
14 March  2019, and between the United  Kingdom , Samoa , and 
Solomon  Islands  on 22  December  2020/ Entered into force on 
1 January  2021 (Provisionally applied between the date of signature and 
the date of entry into force)  
End of transition period  2023 
Services  Not included  
Selected features  Replicates European  Union  (EU)-Pacific States Interim Economic 
Partnership Agreement  
WTO consideration status  Factual presentation not distributed  
WTO document series  WT/REG413, WT/REG414, WT/REG415  
Source:  Compiled by the WTO Secretariat, based on RTA factual presentations and information provided by 
the authorities.  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 23 - 
 
 2.19.   The IEPA is the agreement that entered into provisional application on 28  July 2014 for Fiji. 
It provides duty -free and quota -free market access to all products from Fiji. It also has provisions 
to allow investors based in Fiji to use fish caught using any boats (global s ourcing) and export it to 
the European  Union , provided the fish is landed and processed (canned) in Fiji. Fiji incrementally 
opens its market to 87% of imports from the European  Union  during the transition period.11 Fiji 
continues to negotiate a  comprehens ive Economic Partnership Agreement  with the European  Union  
to secure more preferential access to the EU  market.  
2.20.   In general, the implementation of PICTA started in 2007. However, only Fiji and 6 of PICTA's  
other 14 contracting members (i.e. Cook Islands, Ni ue, Samoa, Solomon  Islands , Tuvalu, and 
Vanuatu) are currently implementing the agreement. A review of PICTA Rules of Origin (RoO) was 
completed in May  2020 with a view to facilitating intra -regional trade further. One of the 
recommendations was to underta ke a production mapping assessment confined to an export 
potential analysis. The purpose of the product specific mapping (PSM) assessment is to help inform 
the design of a modified RoO regime under PICTA that is more flexible  and the least trade diverting , 
and creates minimal negative economic effects for members.  
2.21.   SPARTECA is a non -reciprocal and non -discriminatory trade agreement whereby Australia and 
New Zealand  provide duty -free access to all products originating in the 14 Forum Island Countries 
(FICs)12, except sugar in the case of Australia. SPARTECA has played an integral part in Fiji's 
development.  
2.22.   The authorities state that no trade data specific to Fiji's RTA partners are collected.  
2.3.2.1   Other arrangements  
2.23.   On 27  May 2022, Fiji joined the Indo -Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) as a 
founding member. Fiji is currently negotiating the IPEF with Australia, Brunei  Darussalam , India, 
Indonesia, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Malaysia, New  Zealand , the Philippines, Singapore, 
Thailand, th e United  States , and Viet  Nam. 
2.24.    The participating members of the IPEF started the negotiation on the legal text in 
December  2022. Fiji sees the IPEF as a unique, but progressive framework that has sustainability, 
resilience , and inclusive prosperity at its  core.13 Fiji also acknowledges that the IPEF does not involve 
traditional market access commitments but include s the key components that can make trading 
across borders easier.  
2.25.   On 16  October  2020, Fiji signed a Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TI FA) with 
the United  States .14 The Agreement entered into force upon the date of its signature. The TIFA 
creates a platform on which both contracting countries consult on a wide range of issues relating to 
trade and investment. The two sides also aim to exp lore ways to increase trade in goods and 
services, and to encourage further investment between the two countries.  
2.26.   On 25  September  2019, Fiji, together with Costa  Rica, Iceland, New  Zealand , and Norway, 
announced the commencement of a negotiation of the Agr eement on Climate Change, Trade and 
Sustainability (ACCTS). In January  2020, Switzerland also joined the negotiation. ACCTS will include 
measures such as (i)  the removal of tariffs on environmental goods; (ii)  the establishment of new 
and binding commitmen ts for environmental services; (iii)  establishment of disciplines to eliminate 
subsidies on harmful fossil fuel; and (iv)  creation of guidelines to inform the development and 
implementation of voluntary eco -labelling programmes and mechanisms.  
 
11 European Commission, Countries and Regions:  Pacific . Viewed at: 
https://policy.trade.ec.europa.eu/eu -trade -relationships -country -and-region/countries -and-regions/pacific_en .  
12 The FICs ' combined population is about 9  million  people.  
13 MTCSME  (2022) , "Ministers of the Indo -Pacific Economic Framework Launch Ministerial Statements ", 
11 September.  Viewed at: https://www.mcttt.gov.fj/fiji -minister -launches -the-indo-pacific -economic -
framework -ipef-ministerial -statements/ .  
14 Government o f Fiji (2020) , "Virtual Signing of the United  States  of America – Fiji Trade and 
Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) ", 16 October . Viewed at : https://www.fiji.gov.fj/Media -
Centre/News/VIRTUAL -SIGNING -OF-THE-UNITED -STATES -OF-AMERICA -FI. WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 24 - 
 
 2.27.   Fiji is a me mber of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF)15, which aims to increase sustainable 
regional trade and investment to promote economic growth by lowering trade barriers among 
members.  
2.28.   Fiji is not a member of the Global System of Trade Preferences (GSTP) and provi des no 
preferential tariff treatment to developing countries or least developed countries.  
2.29.   During the review period, Fiji received Generalized System of Preferences ( GSP) treatment 
from Armenia, Australia, Belarus, Canada, Iceland, Japan, Kazakhstan, New  Zealand, Norway, the 
Russian  Federation , Switzerland, Türkiye , and the United  States .16 
2.4  Investment regime  
2.30.   Fiji has put in place a target to maintain total investments at 25% of GDP17, and to increase 
private -sector investments to over 15% of GDP by 2036 . The Government is focused on having a 
dynamic private sector, which invests, innovates, and creates jobs. Investments, especially inward 
FDI, can facilitate the entry of capital, technology and know -how, diversification into new sectors 
and activities, and foster the integration of domestic firms into global value chains, among other 
benefits.  
2.31.   Investment Fiji, a statutory body of the MTCSME , is Fiji's investment promotion agency (IPA). 
Investment Fiji underwent a structural reform under Investment Fiji Act 2 022 (adopted on 
7 April 2022 and entered into force on 1  August  2022).18 Investment Fiji now focuses primarily on 
investment promotion and export expansion, while its regulatory functions are to be transferred to 
the relevant competent authorities.19 
2.32.   During the review period, there were several changes to Fiji's investment -related legislation. 
On 3 June 2021, the Parliament adopted the Investment Act 2021, replacing the Foreign Investment 
Act 1999 and other subsequent acts and regulations. The new Act entered into force on 
1 August  2022. According to the authorities, the Act wa s framed on international benchmark, and 
made Fiji the first in the Pacific Island countries to have such forward -looking investment legislation. 
The Act was to attract efficiency -seeking investors, who would invest with a focus on export. The 
Act establis hed a system to give equal treatment of all investors, domestic or foreign. It introduced 
obligations of both the state and investors, and a broader range of treatment and protection for 
foreign investors such as national treatment and most -favoured -nation  treatment (Article  8)20; 
minimum standard of treatment including fair and equitable treatment (Article  9); freedom to 
manage one's own business (Article  10); freedom from compulsory or arbitrary acquisition of 
property (Article  11); and free transfer of funds (Article  14). The Act removed the requirement for 
foreign investors to apply for a Foreign Investment Registration Certificate and eliminated the 
requirement for an IPA to do screening of investors. The authorities consider that the new i nvestment 
regime provides simple and easy -to-understand processes.  
2.33.   The Investment Act 2021 also introduced an Investment (Reserved & Restricted Activities) 
Regulation 2022, which the authorities consider is simple and focused. They state that rationale for  
the Reserved and Restricted List was to allow for investments across all sectors, with reservation or 
restrictions that would allow for domestic MSMEs to thrive in the same sector as a foreign investor. 
With the removal of screening for foreign investors,  a requirement for reporting to determine 
whether the foreign investor was complying with the minimum investment threshold was 
established. For example, the minimum investment threshold of FJ D 300,000 was introduced by the 
Investment Act to eliminate non -genuine investors. The authorities consider that the reporting is 
 
15 PIF includes Australia, New  Zealand , and the 14 FICs. French Polynesia, New Caledonia , and Tokelau 
are associate members, while American Samoa, Guam, Timor -Leste, and Wallis and Futuna are special 
observers. PIC Secretariat. Viewed at: http://www.forumsec.org.fj . 
16 WTO PTA database. Viewed at: http://ptadb.wto.org /. 
17 MTCSME , Investment  Policy Statement . Viewed at: 
https://www.mcttt.gov.fj/division/trade/investment -policy -statement/ . 
18 This repealed the Investment Fiji Act 1980.  
19 International Finance Cooperation  (2022) , "Investment Fiji Shifts Focus to Attract Investors and Drive 
Exports After IFC Technical Assistance ", 8 April. Viewed at: 
https://pressroom.ifc.org/all/pages/ PressDetail.aspx?ID=26928 .  
20 Such a treatment is given with respect to the acquisition, expansion, management, conduct, 
operation, sale , or other disposition of investment in Fiji, subject to the Act or any other written law.  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 25 - 
 
 important for Investment Fiji to provide aftercare to investors, as in the reports the investors could 
identify any challenges, especially with approval agencies; the new Act made it simpler for investors 
to register their investment in Fiji and the reporting requirements assists Investment Fiji in 
maintaining a database of sectors in which investment is high, sectors where more awareness and 
marketing is required and which countries to target  for investment promotion.  
2.34.   Under the new Act, prior to the commencement of the business, an investor, domestic or 
foreign, must apply for and obtain approval from the following agencies; the Registrar of Companies 
for reservation and registration of a company/business name, and the Fiji Revenue and Customs 
Service for the registration of tax and VAT. Foreign investors must apply for and obtain approval 
from the RBF for the issue of capital/shares and confirmation on remittance of funds; and Fiji National 
Provident Fund for employer/e mployee registration, and only apply with the Department of 
Immigration if the investor wishes to enter Fiji. The foreign investor may also require an 
approval/permit/licence from other relevant agencies depending on the scope of the business.  
2.35.   To implement  the Investment Act 2021, Fiji further adopted regulations, all of which entered 
into force on 1 August  2022. Investment (Reserved and Restricted Activities) Regulation 2022 
stipulates that, apart from the restricted activities for foreign investors, the m inimum investment 
threshold of FJD  300,000 applies.21 As at August  2022, the Regulation designates no reserved 
activity and nine restricted activities (Table  2.3). The list of reserved and restricted activities in the 
regulation must be reviewed by the Minister of the MTCSME every two years.22 
Table  2.3 List of restricted activities  
Fiji Standard Industrial  
Classification (FSIC) 2010 
Coding  Restricted activity  Minimum 
investment  
threshold  
(FJD)  Conditions  
Group 451; 452; 453; 454; 471; 
472; 473; 474; 475; 476; 477; 
478; 479  Retail business  500,000   
n.a. Nightclub, other than those 
operated within the vicinity of 
a hotel or resort  500,000   
n.a. Liquor bar, other than those 
operated within the vicinity of 
a hotel or resort  500,000   
Subclass 02201  Logging  500,000  Foreign investor  
must undertake  
value adding  
Group 031  Fishing (not including fish 
processing)  1,500,000   
Subclass 12001  Manufacturing of tobacco 
products  1,000,000  Foreign investor  
must use at least 
75% locally grown 
and processed 
tobacco in all 
domestic cigarette 
production  
Subclass 55101  Homestay and backpackers – 
motels, motor hotels, 
guesthouses, bed and  
breakfast units, visitor  
flats and bungalows,  
holiday homes, chale ts, 
housekeeping cottages and 
cabins, youth hostels and 
mountain refuges  1,000,000  Development or 
purchase of individual 
units relative to 
timeshare, holiday 
homes, villas and 
apartments are 
exempted from the 
minimum threshold of 
FJD 1,000,000  
 
21 The Minister of the MTCSME may provide a waiver of the minimum investment threshold to a foreign 
investor based on an economic analysis or assessment of skills (Article  3.3 of the Regulation).  
22 Investment Act 2021 , Article  5.5. WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 26 - 
 
 Fiji Standard Industrial  
Classification (FSIC) 2010 
Coding  Restricted activity  Minimum 
investment  
threshold  
(FJD)  Conditions  
Subclass 55 101 Hotels or resorts  
Suite/apartment hotels  
Timeshare units  2,000,000  Development or 
purchase of individual 
units relative to 
timeshare, holiday 
homes, villas and 
apartments are 
exempted from the 
minimum threshold of 
FJD 2,000,000  
Subclass 68101 & 68201  Real estate activities,  
excluding real estate agents  2,000,000   
n.a. Not applicable.  
Source:  Schedule of the Investment (Reserved and Restricted Activities) Regulations 2022, and Investment 
(Reserved and Restricted Activities) (Amendment) Regulation s 2022.  
2.36.   Investment (Foreign Investor Reporting) Regulation 2022 obliges foreign investors to 
complete an online report within three months of incorporation, with a view to supporting investors 
in a post -investment stage by sharing data between relevant authorities. Investors are required to 
describe, inter alia, their intended business activities and any foreign business ownership. The 
MTCSME  and Investment Fiji must treat any data or information as confi dential and must only use 
the data or information for statistical and analytical purposes or to offer aftercare and other services 
to assist foreign investors. In addition, any data or information published by the Ministry and 
Investment Fiji will need to be in an aggregate form.23 
2.37.   The new Act provides that the Ministry may prohibit FDI for the protection of national security 
interests. A foreign investor intending to invest in a sector that may have potential effects on certain 
fields must submit a proposa l of the investment to the Minister for an approval to invest in that 
sector. Such sectors relate to (i)  critical infrastructure such as energy, transport, communication, 
data storage , or financial infrastructure; (ii)  critical technologies such as artificial intelligence, 
robotics, semiconductors, technology with potential dual use application, cybersecurity or nuclear 
technologies; (iii)  the security of supply of critical inputs; and ( iv) access to sensitive information or 
the ability to control se nsitive information. Accordingly, Investment Regulation 2022 provides 
detailed process of this prior screening system.  
2.38.   In 2019, Fiji launched the bizFIJI portal ; according to the authorities, it provides, for the first 
time, a single platform for , inter alia, application processes for investment. Project bizFIJI  2.0 is 
currently being established as an online application and approvals platform. The authorities state 
that such changes are being introduced and implemented to streamline the processes and impro ve 
the turnaround times to make Fiji a conducive business environment; these reform initiatives are 
complemented by the necessary policy and legislative changes where required to boost the growth 
of the economy and ease business processes through digital t ransformation.24 
2.39.   Fiji has traditionally offered a wide range of investment incentives to both domestic and 
foreign investors (Section  3.3.1).  
2.40.   Fiji has concluded double taxation avoidance agreements with Australia, India, Japan, the 
Republic  of Korea, Malaysia, New  Zealand , Papua New Guinea, Qatar, Singapore, the 
United  Arab Emirates , and the United  Kingdom , and is negotiating similar agreements with the 
United  States .25 
2.41.   Fiji is a signatory to the Convention on the Settlement of Investment Disputes Betw een States 
and Nationals of Other States (also known as ICSID Convention) and a member of the World Bank 
Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency. As for investor -state dispute settlement, the  Investment 
Act 2021 stipulates that such disputes must be settl ed promptly and amicably through consultations 
 
23 According to the authorities, this is not yet finali zed. 
24 For example, to streamline processes  relating to starting a business , an analysis was done to remove 
redundant processes, which led to the repeal of the Business Licensing Act 1976 in August  2020.  
25 Investment Fiji. Viewed at: http://www.investmentfiji.org.fj/ . WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 27 - 
 
 and negotiations between the parties (Article  19.1). At the same time, the Act also allows for 
recourse to international arbitration if both parties agree so (Article  19.4) . In this case,  the 
International Arb itration Act 2017 applies. This Act makes provisions for the conduct of international 
arbitration based on the model law adopted by the United Nations Commission on International 
Trade Law.26 The Act implements the United Nations Convention on Recognition and Enforcement of 
Foreign Arbitral Awards 1958 (also known as the New York Convention), which Fiji ratified in 2010.  
2.42.   Fiji's RTAs in force do not have investment provisi ons.
 
26 UNCTAD Investment Policy Hub, Fiji Enacts the International Arbitration Act 2017 . Viewed at: 
https://investmentpolicy.unctad.org/investment -policy -monitor/measures/3199/fiji -enacts -the-international -
arbitration -act-2017.  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 28 - 
 
 3  TRADE POLICIES AND PRACTICES BY MEASURE  
3.1  Measures directly affecting imports  
3.1.1   Customs procedures, valuation, and requirements  
3.1.  The main legislation covering customs procedure and documentation in Fiji remains the 
Customs Act 1986 (revised in 2022), the Customs Tariff (as amended in 2022), and the Customs 
Excise (as amended in 2022). The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS)  oversee s all customs 
matters including policy formulation, administration , and enforcement of customs procedures and 
legislation in Fiji.  
3.2.  The FRCS underwent a digital and organizational transformation over the period February  2016 
to end -2022 to meet future challenges of increased traffic and trade as well as to take advantage of 
digitalization opportunities. Benefits are expected to include reduced regulatory costs, more efficient 
collec tion of receipts , and increased security through effective controls.  
3.3.  During the review period, certain concrete trade facilitation initiatives were undertaken and 
some automated in ASYCUDA World  (Box 3.1).  
3.4.  Customs agents and commercial importers wishing to  import into Fiji goods for commercial 
purposes must register with the FRCS and have a valid tax identification number (TIN).1 A Single 
Administrative Document (SAD), costing FJD  7.152, to declare commercial goods of over FJD  1003 
is required; it may be  submitted electronically or manually. Where applicable, the supporting 
documentation must also include a certificate of origin , an import licence and/or permit , or an 
SPS certificate.  
3.5.  Importers may fulfil customs formalities themselves or engage the services of professional 
customs brokers. In March  2023, there were 89  licensed customs brokers in Fiji. According to the 
authorities, customs brokers compete freely; their fees are not regu lated and there are no 
geographic restrictions on their operations within Fiji . In addition to an annual licence fee, customs 
brokers are required to provide a security of FJD  1,000 to ensure revenue protection and compliance 
with Fiji's customs legislatio n. 
3.6.  Import and export declarations are assigned into one of  the four selectivity lanes: green for 
immediate release, blue for post -clearance audit, yellow for documentary check, and red for 
documentary and physical checks. The assessment methodology is base d on a matrix of risk 
indicators built into the ASYCUDA World  system , comprising the importer's and the customs broker's 
characteristics and prior record, as well as the consignment's nature and origin. A random selection 
component is also incorporated.  Approximately 80% of declaration are facilitated through green  and 
blue lanes.  
3.7.  Temporary importation, re -importation, and bonded and customs controlled licen sed areas 
(warehouses) are allowed.4 Goods are released as soon as the customs declaration is proces sed, 
and duty is collected. In case of disagreement with the FRCS's decisions on all customs matters, 
importers or exporters can lodge an appeal to the Court of Review, and its decisions may be appealed 
to the High Court. The Objection Review Team (ORT) is  a new unit with FRCS where any importer 
or exporter may be able to seek recourse if not satisfied with its judgement before resorting to the 
above process. In 2020 there were six appeals to the ORT . 
3.8.  Fiji notified its category commitments under the Agreement on Trade Facilitation (TFA) in 
January  2017.5 It presented to the WTO its instrument of acceptance of the TFA on 1  May 2017. As 
 
1 Commercial importers are impo rters who run businesses in Fiji or abroad. Goods imported by 
commercial importers are for sale in the local market or for commercial purposes.  
2 The list of fees and charges is available on the FRCA website. Viewed at: www.frca.org.fj . 
3 Products for personal use worth at least FJD  1,000 must be declared.  
4 In the case of temporary imports, an acceptable dep osit or security must be provided. For re -imports, 
any overseas materials used in the goods will be levied the tariff applicable to them based on their added cost.  
5 WTO document  WT/PCTF/N/FJI/1, 23  January  2017. WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 29 - 
 
 at March  2023, Fiji's implementation record covered approximately 97.1% of all TFA measures.6 The 
two remaining commitments concern test procedures for goods declared for importation (definitive 
implementation date: 31  December  2023)7 and the establishment of a single window 
(31 December  2025)8 (Section  2.3.1).  
Box 3.1 Selected customs modernization measures 2016 23  
1. Automation of the extra attendance (C1)  was automated in the ASYCUDA World system  (AWS) 
in 2017 , which includes both application of the C1 by the Traders/Customs Agents/Shipping 
Agents/Console Freight stations and the payment . 
2. Authorized economic operator (AEO)  Pilot was launched in June  2018. The implementation of 
the program me commenced after the A EO was launched in January  2019. Other trade facilitation 
agencies on board with the FRCS are the Ministry of Health and Medical Services , the Biosecurity 
Authority of Fiji (BAF) , and Fiji Ports Terminal. Moreover, there are seven  companies under the AEO 
program me. 
3. Single manifest submission ( sea port manifest) for other agencies  – FRCS has provided MOH, 
BAF, and Fiji ports terminal with access to the AWS, for viewing and flagging the consignments on 
the system, which was previously done manually. Agencies no longer require copies of  the paper 
manifest to be submitted. However, only BAF still requires a copy of the paper manifest, to run it in 
parallel with the system for the time being to compile data for risk profiling/risk management.  
4. Mobile X -ray container scanner  – The scanner has been installed at Suva port and was 
inaugurated on 23  April 2019. The scanner enables joint inspection to be conducted with limited 
physical intervention and thereby reduc e the time required to clear consignments.  
5. Offence  module  – Issuance of infringement/offence reporting and detention of goods was 
automated in the AWS in 2019 . 
6. Abolishment of stamp duty  – Effective from 1  August  2020, the Stamp Duty Act was repealed. 
Previously, exporters were required to pay a Stamp Duty  of FJD 10 (per Bill of Lading) and get the 
Bill of Lading stamped at the FRCS office prior to export. The abolishment of stamp duties has not 
only eliminated an entire procedure, but it has also reduced the cost and time required to trade. 
Traders are no longer required to take out time to visit the Customs Office for stamping of the Bill of 
Lading and pay the prescribed fee.  
7. AWS access provided to the Land Transport Authority of Fiji (LTA)  – FRCS has provided 
training, awareness, and access to the AWS to LTA officers. This is a step towards a Single Window 
initiative, which has enabled the LTA to view all customs entr ies for motor vehicles for domestic 
registration purposes. This coordination  and availability of information ensures that only duty -paid 
vehicles are registered by individuals and companies.  
8. There is a strict implementation of the requirement to upload licen ces and permits for 
export/import, prior to the registration of customs en tries into the  AWS, in a move towards 
enforcement of the Customs Prohibited Import and Export Regulation (1986). Due to this change, 
the System only allows agents to clear legitimate goods, as it requires importers and agents to have 
the required documents  ready prior to arrival of goods and , hence, saves time and cost incurred from 
delayed clearance of goods.  
9. Profiling and targeting of consignment for effective risk management  – FRCS has created 
two new mandatory fields in the Bill of Lading segment in the  electronic manifest uploaded in the 
AWS, to record country of origin and country of destination in the Bill of Lading. This provides the 
National Border Control and Targeting Centre with the ability to pull the Bill of Lading from the 
system, with country  of origin and country of destination of interest for profiling and targeting. This 
saves time , as the consignment is inspected with use of a targeted approach for clearance.  
10. The provision to re -route a single administrative document (SAD) from the yellow lane to 
red lane was created in the AWS in December  2020. This allows officers to re -route SADs 
selected for documentary check (Yellow Lane) for physical examination (Red Lane) in the System 
itself. The prior practice was to manually assign the SADs to the inspecting officers through email 
notifications, which meant that the SAD lane colo urs did not change in the system. The ability to 
re-assign SAD lanes within the system has created greater ease  and transparency, and it enabled 
officers to keep track o f all SADs selected yellow and referred for inspection thereafter. It also 
eliminates the possibility of human error and saves time due to removal of manual assignment and 
simplification of process for inspection and consignment clearance.  
11. Pre-clearance  – FRCS has implemented pre -clearance for all personal effects that is cleared through 
Container Freight Stations , as a safety measure to mitigate people -to-people interaction due to 
COVID -19. The implementation of pre -clearance greatly saves inspection time , as inspections are 
carried out prior to collection , and saves time for customers , as clearance is already provided when 
the customer reaches the premises to collect the item.  
 
6 WTO, Trade Facilitation Agreement database. All trade facilitation -related information for Fiji can be 
found at: https://www.tfadatabase.org/en/members/fiji . 
7 TFA, Article  5.3. 
8 TFA, Article  10.4. WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 30 - 
 
 12. Vessel notification module  – The inward and outward vessel clearance process was automated in 
the AWS in 2019 where shipping agents use the AWS for clearance ; all the required documents are 
uploaded in PDF format.  
13. Creating of code "AID" for emergency relief goods  – FRCS has created the co de "AID" in the 
AWS to cater for goods brought into Fiji for aid purposes during time when there is a declaration of 
a State of National Emergency/Disaster. The Code allows clearance to be processed without a 
manifest and bypasses all customs service fees and relieves importers of all duties and taxes. This 
enables a faster clearance of essential goods and supplies during a crisis.  
14. A Memorandum of Understanding (M oU) has been signed between FRCS and Ministry of 
Fisheries in October  2020, in relation to data  sharing between the two agencies and the 
allowing Ministry of Fisheries to use the AWS, as an initiative towards onboarding of trade 
facilitation agencies to the Single Window System Initiative . By providing access to the AWS, 
the Ministry of Fisheries ca n clear fisheries consignments and share fishing vessel movements with 
the Customs Border Team. The Ministry of Fisheries is using the AWS for clearing of the goods it 
profiled in the AWS. 
15. Single manifest  – With this new initiative, the manifest is registered by the shipping agents at the 
first port of entry for all goods due for discharge in Fiji; there are no more requirements for additional 
manifests. It reduces transaction cost and streamline s the proces s, making it faster and more 
efficient.  
16. Other administration selectivity activated  – The BAF , Ministry of Health and Medical Services, 
and Ministry of Fisheries use the AWS for the processing of Customs Declarations. The profiles are 
also activated in the AWS. Customs has its own profiling committee , which continuously reviews the 
profiles every six months , and as and when required , and updates profiles in the AWS. 
17. Deferment payment  – The AWS has been automated to include the provision of deferred payment 
for the A EO, Gold Card operators , and bonded warehouse operators, effective since 2021.  
Source:  Compiled by the WTO Secretariat , based on information provided by the authorities.  
3.9.  The authorities state that Fiji applies the WTO  Agreement  on Customs Valuation and uses the 
transaction value of goods as the primary method (approximately 80% of all import declarations 
each year). The dutiable value of all imports is the sum of the purchase cost and all expenses 
incurred for insurance and freight up to the point of entry into Fiji.  Fiji does not apply any regulation 
on pre -shipment inspection.  
3.10.   Fiji has concluded customs cooperation agreements, including the FRCS' ongoing  Partnership 
Programmes with New  Zealand  Customs and the Australian Border Forc e, focused on sharing 
information through the WCO Regional Intelligence Liaisons Office (RILO) and Oceania Customs 
Organization (OCO). In addition, the FRCS has 13 MoUs/MoAs in place, 9 of which are with fellow 
Customs administrations and broadly focused o n strengthening cooperation through information 
sharing  (Table  3.1). Fiji is also in the process of developing some new formal agreements with a 
number of other Customs administrations . 
Table  3.1 Customs cooperation agreements  
International 
MOUs/MoA s 
Date of signing  Type  Party to the M oU/MoA  Purpose of the M oU/MoA  Status  
March  2021  MoU  United Nations Office on 
Drugs and Crime  (UNODC)   To provide framework of cooperation and 
understanding and collaboration in 
regard to the UNODC -World Customs 
Organization (WCO) Container Control 
Programme (CCP)  Active  
October  2018  MoU  Hong Kong Customs (HKC)  To enhance cooperation with HKC in 
terms of trade facilitation a nd law 
enforcement  Active  
June  2017  MoU  Pacific Island Tax Assn. 
Admin. (PITAA)  To exchange information and share 
resources  Active  
March  2017  MoA  New Zealand  Customs 
Service  To establish and strengthen c ooperation  
and ensure the successful delivery of the 
Fiji Country Plan (2017 -2021)  Active  
September  2016  MoU  Tuvalu Customs  To exchange information  Active  
August  2016  MoU  Kiribati Customs Services 
(KCS)  To facilitate i nformation  
sharing/ training/ twinning  program mes, 
providing best practices in the 
application of Customs Laws  Active  
June  2015  MoU  Vanuatu Customs  To exchange information  Active  
Source:  Information provided by the FRCS.  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 31 - 
 
 3.1.2   Rules of origin  
3.11.   Fiji's customs legislation does not contain any provisions on non -preferential or preferential 
rules of origin. According to the authorities, implementing regulations on Fiji's preferential rules of 
origin are contained in Fiji's specific regional trade agreements (Section  2.3.2).  
3.1.3   Tariffs  
3.12.   In 2022, customs duties and taxes on imports accounted for approximately 76% of total tax 
revenue. Customs duties accounted for 17% of tax receipts.9 
3.13.   Fiji's 2022 applied MFN customs tariff is based on HS22 and comprises 6,521 lines at the 
8-digit level. Of the total, 6,299 tariff lines have ad valorem  rates (including 1,706 duty -free rates), 
while 222 tariff lines have non -ad valorem  rates. Specific rates are applied to 108 tariff lines 
including , inter alia, alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, petroleum oils, certain cyclic 
hydrocarbons, and certain used motor vehicles. Alternate rates are applied to 114 tariff lines 
including , inter alia, certain plastic articles, pneumatic tyres of rubber, worn clothing, bars and rods 
of iron or non -alloy steel, and used or reconditioned motor vehicles. The overall standard deviation 
went down from 10.5 (in 2015) to 7.6 (in 2022), indicating a reduction in tariff dispersion. This was 
due to changes in tariff peaks. The international tariff peaks (% of all tariff lines) decreased from 
18% in 2015 to 5.7% in 2022 , underscoring the reduction in tariff dispersion. Agricultural products 
(WTO definition) remain highly protected with a simple average applied (including AVEs) rate of 
17.5% in 2022 (18.9% in 2015). Arms and ammunitions also still enjoy higher protection. There are 
no seasonal tariffs o r tariff quotas (Table  3.2, Table  A3.1, and Chart  3.3). 
Table  3.2 Structure of MFN tariff, 2015 and 2022  
(%, unless otherwise indicated)   
MFN applied  
Final  
bounda   2015  2015 
(incl. 
AVEs)  2022  2022 
(incl. 
AVEs)  
Bound tariff lines (% of all tariff lines)  49.5 49.5 47.5 47.5 47.5 
Simple average rate  11.2 12.3 6.2 7.7 40.1 
 WTO agricultural products  12.5 18.9 7.5 17.5 40.5 
 WTO non -agricultural products  11.0 11.2 6.0 6.2 40.0 
 HS 01 -24 13.9 19.2 9.6 17.6 40.6 
 HS 25 -97 10.6 10.9 5.5 5.7 40.0 
Duty-free tariff lines (% of all tariff lines)  4.3 4.3 26.2 26.2 0.0 
Simple average rate of dutiable lines only  11.7 12.8 8.4 10.4 40.1 
Tariff quotas (% of all tariff lines)  0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 
Non-ad valorem  tariffs (% of all tariff lines)  4.5 4.5 3.4 3.4 0.6 
Non-ad valorem  tariffs with no AVEs (% of all tariff lines)  1.7 1.7 2.4 2.4 2.1 
Domestic tariff "peaks" (% of all tariff lines)b 0.0 0.8 5.7 6.4 0.0 
International tariff "peaks" (% of all tariff lines)c 18.0 18.6 5.7 6.6 47.0 
Standard deviation  10.5 27.2 7.6 28.6 2.0 
Nuisance applied rates (% of all tariff lines)d 0.0 0.05 0.0 0.03 0.0 
Number of lines  5,968   
6,521   
3,099  
 Duty-free lines  259  
1,706   
0 
 Ad valorem  rates (>0%)  5,440   
4,593   
3,062  
 Non-ad valorem  rates 269  
222  
37 
 
9 Custom revenue as a ratio of total revenue collected by the FRCS.  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 32 - 
 
  
MFN applied  
Final  
bounda   2015  2015 
(incl. 
AVEs)  2022  2022 
(incl. 
AVEs)  
 Specific  92  
108  
34 
 Alternate  177  
114  
3 
a Final bound rates are based on the 2022 tariff schedule. Calculations are based on 3,099 bound 
rates (including 21 partially bound rates, and e xcluding 3,422 tariff lines with unbound rates ). 
b Domestic tariff peaks are defined as those exceeding three times the overall simple average applied 
rate. 
c International tariff peaks are defined as those exceeding 15%.  
d Nuisance rates are those greater than zero, but less than or equal to 2%.   
Note:  Excluding specific rates  and including the ad valorem  part of alternate rates. The 2015 tariff 
schedule is based on HS12 nomenclature and the 2022 tariff schedule is based on HS22. In 2015, 
AVEs are calculated based on 2013 import data provided by the authorities. In 2022, AVEs are 
calculated based on 2020 import data taken from UN Comtrade.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat calculations, based on information provided by the FRCS  and by the authorities . 
3.14.   The simple average applied MFN tariff decreased from 11.2% in 2015 to 6.2% in 2022, 
reflecting mainly an increase in the share of duty -free tariff lines (259 tariff lines ) (4.3% of overall 
tariff lines) in 2015 to 1,706 tariff lines (26.2% of overall tar iff lines) in 2022. Over the same period, 
the simple average rate on dutiable lines dropped from 11.7% in 2015 to 8.4% in 2022. Almost 
83.4% of tariff lines are subject to low tariff duties (below 5%) while much higher duties (32%) are 
applied to 4.9% of t ariff lines. The modal (most frequent) rate remains 5%. Domestic and 
international peaks are each observed in 5.7% of tariff lines (Table  3.2 and Chart  3.1). 
Chart  3.1 Distribution of MFN tariff rates, 2015 an d 2022  
(Number of tariff lines)  
 
Note:  Figures above bars refer to the percentage of total lines.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat calculations, based on information taken from the FRCS. 
3.15.   The share of unbounded tariff lines slightly decreased during the review period but remains 
higher due to the reclassification of tariff. Currently 3,099 tariff lines are bound (including 21 partially 
bound rates). Nearly all (98%) are bound at 40%, while the simple average applied MFN rate is 
6.2%. While this large difference between bound and applied MFN rate may represent policy space 
for Fiji, it may also be seen as a potential uncertainty of the Fiji tariff regime. Fiji has not bound 
3,422 of its tarif f lines , and for some 41 tariff lines (food products including alcohol, alcoholic 
beverages, and tobacco), applied MFN tariff rates exceed the bound rate s (Table s 3.2 and 
A3.1-A3.2).  
3.16.   The structure of the applied MFN tariff displays mixed escalation: overal l positive from 
first-stage processed goods with an average tariff rate of 6.4% to semi -processed products on which 
tariffs average 7.0%, and negative from the latter to fully processed products with an average tariff 
rate of 5.6% (Table  A3.1). At a most d isaggregated levels, positive tariff escalation is evident in 
4.362.0
14.015.2
4.526.257.2
8.3
4.93.9
05001,0001,5002,0002,5003,0003,5004,000
Duty free 5% 15% 32% Non-ad valorem
rates
Note:  Figures above the bars refer to the percentage of total lines.   
Source:  WTO Secretariat calculations, based on i nformation taken from Fiji Revenue and Customs Service.Number of tariff linesChart 3.[FJI]  Distribution of MFN tariff rates, 2015 and 2022
MFN 2015
Total number of lines: 5,968
MFN 2022
Total number of lines: 6,521
Non-ad valorem 
ratesWT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 33 - 
 
 some manufacturing industries with escalation more marked in paper, printing, and publishing; 
chemicals; non -metallic mineral products; and basic metals. However, for food, beverages, tobacco, 
and leather and textile s, the escalation is negative from raw materials to semi -processed products, 
and then positive from semi -processed to finished products (Chart  3.2). Such a tariff structure 
(negative escalation) tends to discourage investment in proce ssing industries because the heavy 
taxation of imported inputs adds to production costs or reduces the competitiveness of products 
manufactured in Fiji. The tariff structure may not be conducive to diversification of economic activity 
through manufacturing . It also contributes to investors' arguments in favour of duty and tax 
concessions, including under the Industrial Free Zone (IFZ) and Special Economic Zone (SEZ) 
regimes (Section  3.1 and Table  A3.3).  
Chart  3.2 Tariff escalation by 2 -digit ISIC industry, 2022  
 
n.a. Not applicable.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat calculations, based on information  provided by  the FRCS . 
n.a.n.a.
0%2%4%6%8%10%12%14%
31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 Total
manuf.Chart 3.[FJI]   Tariff escalation by 2 -digit ISIC industry, 2022
Average applied rate
in manufacturing
(6.2%)First stage of processing
Semi-processed
Fully processed
n.a.       Not applicable.31   Food, beverages and tobacco      
32   Textiles and leather  
33   Wood and furniture      37   Basic metals
38   Fabricated metal products and machinery
39   Other manufacturing34   Paper, printing and publishing
35   Chemicals
36   Non -metallic mineral products
Source:  WTO Secretariat calculations, based on data taken from Fiji Revenue and Customs Service.WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 34 - 
 
 Chart  3.3 Simple average applied MFN tariff rates, by HS section , 2015 and 2022  
 
Note:  Excluding specific rates and including the ad valorem  part of alternate rates.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat calculations, based on information provided by the FRCS . 
3.1.4   Other charges affecting imports  
3.17.   In addition to customs duties, the Government levies VAT and excise duties on some 
imports.10 
3.18.   The VAT applies to most import s either at zero, 9% , or 15%. The tax base comprises the c.i.f. 
value of goods and all other duties and ch arges. VAT also applies to some services, except financial 
services, domestic rents , and education services. VAT is applied to 6,403 tariff lines (98.2% of the 
total). VAT at 9% is applied to 4,938 tariff lines (75.7% of total), and VAT at 15% is applied t o 1,465 
tariff lines (22.5% of total).  
3.19.   The VAT of 15% applies to alcoholic beverages, tobacco; perfumes and toilet waters; textiles 
and clothing; footwear; precious metals; appliances for gas fuel; air -conditioning machines; 
refrigerators; freezers; clothes -dryers; dish -washing machines; powered lawn mowers; washing 
machines; dry -cleaning machines; electrical machinery and equipment and parts thereof (all 
HS Chapter 85); passenger motor cars and racing cars;  and wristwatches . 
3.20.   No VAT is appli ed to basic food products, comprising 118 tariff lines (1.8% of total) , including  
milk; potatoes, fresh or chilled; onions and shallots, fresh or chilled; garlic, fresh or chilled; dried 
leguminous vegetables, shelled; tea; rice; wheat and meslin flour; ce rtain vegetable oils (e.g. 
soya bean, ground -nut, olive, sunflower, and maize); prepared/preserved fish; cane sugar; salt; 
kerosene and illuminating oil; liquified butanes; dentifrices; certain soap; organic surface -active 
agents; toilet paper; vehicles wi th only electric motor for propulsion; and sanitary towels. Exports, 
including of services , are also subject to a zero VAT rate.  
3.21.   Fiji applies excise duties to a range of products, whether imported or manufactured in the 
country. The list of excisable goods  covers 120 tariff lines (1.8% of the total) at rates of 15%, 10% , 
and 5% as follows: 15% applied to 29 tariff lines (e.g. on non -alcoholic beverages; all tobacco and 
 
10 Information on VAT and excise duties are based on the 2022 tariff schedule.  
0%5%10%15%20%25%30%
Live animals & prod.
Vegetable products
Fats and oils
Prepared food, etc.
Mineral prod.
Chemicals & prod.
Plastic & rubber
Hides & skins
Wood & articles
Pulp, paper, etc.
Textiles & articles
Footwear, headgear
Articles of stone
Precious stones, etc.
Base metals & prod.
Machinery
Transport equipment
Precision instruments
Arms & ammunition
Misc. manufactures
Works of art, etc.
TotalChart 3.[FJI]   Simple average applied MFN tariff rates, by HS section, 2015 and 2022
Note:   Excluding specifc rates, and including the ad valorem part of alternate rates.
Source: WTO Secretariat calculations, based on information taken from Fiji Revenue and Customs Service.2015 2022WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 35 - 
 
 tobacco products (except two tariff lines for cigarettes where excise duty is FJD  347.89/ kg); and 
certain plastic articles ). A rate of 10% applie s to 59 tariff lines  (e.g. on chicken meat; natural honey; 
Portland cement; wood sawn or chipped lengthwise of a thickness > 6  mm; and tube/pipes of iron 
or steel ). A rate of 5% applie s to 30 tariff l ines, 28 lines on new motor vehicles and 2 tariff lines on 
louvre -type windows and their frames of iron or steel and aluminium.  
3.22.   The excise tax regime has not changed since 2016 . 
3.23.   Fiji grants duty and tax concessions under various initiatives aimed at promot ing investment 
or achieving social objectives (Section  2). According to the authorities, duty and tax concessions 
granted to imports resulted in forgone revenue in the range of FJD 250 million over the 2016 -22 
period. While declining, revenue losses on import -related concessions amounted to approximately 
15% of total fiscal revenue and some 33% on average for the last past three years (2020 -22) of 
revenue collections by Fiji Customs. The level and the scope of these concessions call for a need to 
align t he tariff structure with Fiji's development objectives ( Section  3.1.4. on tariff escalation and 
Table  A3.3).  
3.1.5   Import prohibitions, restrictions, and licensing  
3.24.   Fiji did not submit any notifications to the Committee on Import Licensing during the period 
under  review. The authorities affirm that licensing requirements are mainly used for national 
security, public safety, health, morality environmental reasons, or for the enforcement of 
international obligations undertaken by Fiji. Non -automatic licensing requir ements continue to apply 
on several imports, including firearms, explosives, noxious gases, ozone -depleting substances, 
narcotics, medicines, alcoholic beverages, tobacco and cigarettes, indecent or obscene material, 
gambling machines, and endangered speci es. The legal instruments governing restricted imports 
remains the Customs Act and Customs Regulations as amended in 2022.  
3.25.   The authorities state that the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji must license certain types of 
agricultural imports, such as rice, dairy,  poultry, and meat. The Ministry of Economy issues import 
licences for gold and other precious metals, cigarette lighters , and other mechanical or electrical 
lighters. Import licen ces for products such as lubricants, transformer s, circuit breaker oils, cle ansing 
oils, and hydraulic brake oils are issued by the  MTCSME .  
3.26.   Prohibited imports include counterfeit currency, pornographic or subversive materials, goods 
infringing intellectual property rights, and hazardous waste (Table s A3.4 and A3.5).  
3.1.6   Anti-dumping,  countervailing, and safeguard measures  
3.27.   Fiji's legal and institutional frameworks for the application of anti-dumping, countervailing, 
and safeguard measures did not change over the review period.11 To date, no contingency actions 
have been taken by Fiji. 
3.1.7   Other measures affecting imports  
3.28.   Fiji does not have any system on reserve stock requirements in place. It is not a party to any 
countertrade and offsetting arrangements, or agreements limiting exports to Fiji. The country does 
not apply any trade san ctions.  
3.29.   Under the Investment Act 2021, Fiji obliges foreign investors in manufacturing of tobacco 
products to satisfy a local content requirement. Investors must procure at least 75% locally grown 
and processed tobacco in all domestic cigarette production (Table  2.3). 
 
11 WTO document  WT/TPR/S/330/Rev.1, 26  April 2016. WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 36 - 
 
 3.2  Measures directly affecting exports  
3.2.1   Customs procedures and requirements  
3.30.   The registration and customs clearance procedures for exports are like those for imports 
(Section  3.1.1), requiring notably a TIN, a declaration, a commercial invoice, a packing list, a Bill of 
Lading/airway , and, where applicable, a conformity, sanitary , or phytosanitary certificate, and 
original export permits and/or licences.  
3.31.   Exporters wishing to benefit from preferential access to foreign markets may obtain the 
necessar y certificate of origin from Fiji Customs, costing FJD  50. For goods subject to export taxes, 
export valuations may be checked by the FRCS.  
3.2.2   Taxes, charges, and levies  
3.32.   Fiji continues to charge export duties , which are provided for in the Customs Act 
(Sections  92(2) and 93(3)) and the Customs Tariff Act (Section  3(b)) (rates are specified in 
Schedule  2). They are applied to 21  tariff lines (0.3% of total tariff lines), 20  at a rate of 3% and 
1 at 5% . The rate of 3% applies to cane or beet sugar and chemically pure sucrose, in solid form 
(5 lines); molasses resulting from the extraction or refining of sugar (2  lines); silver, unwrought or 
in semi -manufactured forms or in powder forms (3  lines); base metals clad with silver, not further 
worked than sem i-manufactured (1  line); gold, unwrought or in semi -manufactured forms or in 
powder forms (4  lines); base metals or silver, clad with gold, not further worked than 
semi-manufactured (1  line); and waste and scrap of precious metals (4  lines) . The rate of 5%  applies 
to pebbles, gravel, broken, or crushed stone (1  line). 
3.2.3   Export prohibitions, restrictions, and licensing  
3.33.   In Fiji, in addition to the general business licence for engaging in cross -border trade, special 
licensing requirements remain in place for cer tain exports, such as fisheries and agricultural products 
(Table  3.3). Exports proceeds must be repatriated to Fiji through the banking system within 
six months of shipment.  
3.34.   As with imports, the legal instruments governing export restrictions have not much  changed 
and the granting of licences is administered by several line ministries and government agencies.12 
3.35.   Over the review period, the BAF aligned registration of export Biosecurity Approved Premises 
(BAP) with the Fruit Exporters License (FEL) under the Fruit Export and Marketing Act (Chapter 154 ) 
to streamline registration processes and make it simpler for exporters of agricultural commodities 
to comply. According to the authorities, it now takes 48 hours (down from 1 week) to get a Forest 
Harvesting Licence, thanks to the Ministry of Forestry's o nline system .13 
3.36.   Prohibited exports include round logs for environmental reasons and to promote downstream 
processing.  
3.37.   Exports of fish and other marine products require an export permit from the Ministry of 
Fisheries and exports of certain species are prohi bited on conservational and environmental grounds. 
Export permits are required for every consignment 48 hours before shipment. In order to export 
tuna to major markets such as the United  States , Japan, Australia , and Canada, the exporter is 
required to ado pt and implement the following food safety systems: (i)  Hazard Analysis Critical 
 
12 Links to agency websites for export licen ces: 
Fiji Revenue and Customs Services. Viewed at: https://www.frcs.org.fj/our -services/customs/ . 
Biosecurity Authority of Fiji. Viewed at: https://www.baf.com .fj/. 
Ministry of Forestry. Viewed at: https://www.forestry.gov.fj/ . 
Ministry of Fisheries. Viewed at: https://www.fisheries.gov.fj/index.php/forms . 
Telecommunications Authority of Fiji. Viewed at: http://www.taf.org.fj/Licensing/Import -Permit.aspx . 
Ministry of Waterways and Environment. Viewed at: https://www.mowe.gov.fj/permits -licenses/ . 
Ministry of Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport.  
Viewed at: https://www.mcttt.gov.fj/ divisions/trade -unit/programmes/international -trade-agreements/ . 
13 Fruit Export and Marketing Act 1906 – Law of Fiji. Viewed at: 
https://www.laws.gov.fj/Acts/DisplayAct/2288 . WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 37 - 
 
 Control Point (HACCP) System; (ii)  Standard Sanitization Operating Procedure (SSOP); (iii)  Good 
Manufacturing Practices Plan (GMPP) ; and (iv)  Marine Stewardship Council (MSC).  
3.38.   As for tuna export s to the European  Union , exporters must comply with EU fish export 
standards. That is, vessels, crew, processing plants , and storage facilities must be certified by the 
competent authority. The exported fish also need to be accompanied b y a Catch Certificate 
confirming that the fish caught by Fiji fishing vessels are not I UU (illegal, unreported and 
unregulated) caught. In the ongoing negotiations of the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) with 
the European  Union , Fiji continues to striv e for the establishment of more flexible rules of origin than 
those in the interim EPA that would allow for global sourcing of fisheries raw materials.14 
Table  3.3 Exports requiring a licence, 2023  
Description  Conditions, restrictions , or requirements  
All birds (other than domestic fowl, ducks, turkeys, 
geese , and pigeons) alive or dead and the plumage or 
any part of the plumage of such birds  Written permission from the Secretary for Primary 
Industries  
All live cattle  Export licence from the Secretary for Primary Industries  
All reptiles (except for marine turtles), amphibians 
(except for toads), bats, and the Fiji Gos hawk Export licence from the Secretary for Primary Industries  
Whales' teeth (Tabua), breast plates of pearl and 
ivory Written permission from the Secretary for Fijian Affairs  
Unprocessed turtle shell  Export licence from the Secretary for Primary Industries  
Fiji manufactured sugar in any consignment 
exceeding 5  kg Export licence from the Comptroller of Customs  
Copra  Export permit from the Coconut Board  
Wheat bran classified in HS 2302.00.00  Export licence from the Secretary for Primary Industries  
All Fijian weapons made for war ; certain forks of 
bone, ivory , or wood ; artefacts made from whales' 
tooth including breast plates, pendants, necklaces, 
food hangers, and human and animal figures ; all 
stone adzes and pounders ; and all wooden or stone 
carvings of human or animal figures, except replicas 
made for the souvenir tr ade Export licence from the Secretary for Housing and Urban 
Affairs  
Wood and wood products classified in 48 eight -digit 
tariff items within HS Chapter 44, covering 
unprocessed (round) logs and timber  Export licence from the Conservator of Forests  
Coffee in any form classified in HS 0901.00.01, 
0901.00.09, 2101.02.01 and 2101.02.09  Certificate from the Secretary for Primary Industries in 
accordance with the rules of the International Coffee 
Organization  
Unprocessed Trochus shells classified in 
HS 0508.00.20  Licence from Secretary of Trade and Commerce  
Arms and ammunition  Licence from the Commissioner of Police subject to the 
Arms and Ammunition Act  
Dangerous drugs covered by Part IV  Authorization in accordance with the Dangerous Drugs Act  
Gold coin, bullion, and currency notes of Fiji or any 
other country  Written permission from Reserve Bank, excluding travellers 
taking abroad foreign currency notes of up to FJ D 5,000 
per person, all consignments of goods exceeding FJ D 1,000 
f.o.b. except i n accordance with the provisions of the 
Exchange Control Act  
Explosives  Licence under the Explosive Act  
Fisheries  Live fish of any kind; turtle flesh; turtle shell of length less 
than 45.72  cm; any shell of the Trochus species measuring 
less than 8.89 cm across the whorl, and of some other 
species  
Minerals  Permit from Director of Mines endorsed with a certificate 
indicating that all royalties have been paid or secured, or 
that no royalties are payable, in accordance with the 
Mining Act  
Monuments or objects of archaeological and 
palaeontological interest  Permit issued by the Board of Trustees established under 
the Fiji Museum Act, in accordance with the Preservation of 
Archaeological and Palaeontological Interest Act  
Source:  Customs (Prohibited Imports and Exports) Regulations, Schedule 7. 
 
14 Information provided by the authorities.  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 38 - 
 
 3.2.4   Export support and promotion  
3.39.   Fiji has not submitted any notifications regarding export subsidies to the Committee on 
Agriculture and the Committee on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures ov er the review period.  
3.40.   Fiji continues to have various export incentive schemes with the aim of increasing investment 
in exporting activities. A duty drawback scheme has been in operation since 1986 ( Customs Act, 
Section  101). The FRCS oversees this scheme.15 Export income reduction established in 2012 will 
be phased out in 2024. The Export Income Deduction is a tax incentive provided by Fiji to encourage 
and promote economic growth and inflow of foreign exchange. The authorities state that in the 
COVID -19 Response Budget, the Export Income Deduction was increased from 50% to 60% and the 
rate was valid till 2022. However, given the negative impact of the pandemic on exports (especially 
on tourism), the deduction will be maintained until 31  December  2024. The agriculture and fisheries 
sector s will qualify for Export Income Deduction of 90%.  
3.2.5   Export finance, insurance, and guarantees  
3.41.   The National Export Strategy (NES), administered by the MTCSME , aims to achieve 
sustainable growth by encouraging exports, competi tiveness, value adding, and export 
diversification in areas where there are competitive advantages. Fiji has identified six key areas: 
agrobusiness; forestry; marine products; mineral water; information and communication 
technologies (ICT); and audiovisual  services. The NES assists SMEs in the prioritized sectors on a 
cost-sharing basis with an emphasis on addressing supply -side constraints (e.g. product 
development, packaging, infrastructure, marketing, and training).16 
3.3  Measures affecting production and trade 
3.3.1   Incentives  
3.42.   Fiji continues to apply many  various types of investment incentives to both domestic and 
foreign investors for industrial policy to support business activities in general or specific sectors such 
as agriculture, fisheries, manufacturing, and  services (Section  4). These initiatives include fiscal 
concessions, access to preferential credits, and targeted subsidies, and are to a large extent limited 
in terms of scope due to budget constraints (Table  A3.3). 
3.43.   Concerning particularly micro, small an d medium -sized enterprises (MSMEs) , the authorities 
state that Fiji provides supports to these enterprises in various ways (Box 3.2).  
3.44.   The Ministry of Trade, Co -operatives, and Small and Medium Enterprises (MTCSME) has 
established a dedicated unit that is r esponsible for the policy formulation and development of MSME 
businesses in Fiji. The unit also provides business development services, such as advisory and 
training to grass -roots-level entrepreneurs who seek to open a business and support their families.  
3.45.   The Ministry also administers the livelihood programmes that provide financial assistance to 
targeted sectors such as exporters, youth, and rural/peri -urban communities.  
3.46.   During the period under review, Fiji did not make any notification regarding  the existence of 
any subsidy within the meaning of Article  1.1 of the Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing 
Measures , which is specific within the meaning of Article  2 of the Agreement, or which operates 
directly or indirectly to increase exports from  or reduce imports into its territory within the meaning 
of Article  XVI:1 of the GATT  1994. 
 
15 There are two types of drawbacks, depending on whether the imported goods are exported or 
processed. Normal drawback applies where imported inputs are exported witho ut undergoing any domestic 
processing, while industrial drawback applies on imported inputs that undergo processing before export. 
Exporters must meet several requirements to receive drawback s, and the amount of duty refunded is based on 
a formula derived and agreed between customs and the exporters, which may be company specific.  
16 Investment Fiji. Viewed at: http://www.investmentfiji.org.fj/ . WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 39 - 
 
 Box 3.2 Supports provided to MSMEs  and Co -operatives  
MSMEs  
• Over the review period, the M TCSME  has invested over FJD 100 million  through grants in the MSME 
sector.  
• Since 2014, 330 training sessions  with 8,093 attend ants have been conducted. The training covered 
topics from financial literacy, business plan development, cash flow forecasting, social media 
marketing , and post -disaster business recovery sessions.  
• During the COVID -19 pandemic, the M TCSME  served as the secretariat for the implementation of the 
COVID -19 MSME Concessional Loan Programme , which provided financial assistance to new and 
existing MSMEs through the loan s (FJD 7,000, FJD 14,000 , and FJD 21,000) at concessional interest 
rates (0.5%, 1% , and 1.5%). Through this programme , the Government partnered with key 
private -sector organi zations : Fiji Institute of Accountants, Fiji Commerce and Employer s Federation, 
Fiji Chamber of Commerce and Industry , and Women in Business.  
• Additionally, considering the impact of COVID -19, the Government is offering support to new and 
existing micro businesses ( i.e. businesses whose annual turnover is less than FJD 50,000) the 
opportunity to apply for a FJD 500 grant to enhance their services to citizens . 
• Business Assistance Fiji also provides business development services for the MSME sector.  
• Initiatives such as "Fijian Made – Buy Fijian " brand were enacted to increase the brand recognition 
of locally manufactured products. Over 60% of the registered businesses are MSMEs.  
• Another initiative is the standardized roadside stalls from which MSMEs sell fresh produce along the 
highways in Fiji. At present, there are 1 02 safe and hygienic roadside stalls that are leased to vendors.  
Co-operatives  
• The MTCSME  has a department dedicated to the monitoring and development of the Co -operative 
Businesses.  
• The department formulates and implements policies and strategies to facil itate the promotion, 
establishment, and monitoring of co-operative businesses in Fiji.  
• The department has 484 registered and operating co-operatives in Fiji , with the highest number 
engaged in the wholesale and retail trade sector (40%).  
• Since 2015, the department has conduct ed 894 awareness session s, reaching residents of even the 
most remote places in Fiji (i.e. the maritime areas).  
• The department also provides training through the Co -operative College of Fiji to help build the skills 
of co-operative memb ers and board members. Since 2015, 189 training  sessions have been 
conducted , which helped develop the skills of approximately 3 ,500 citizens . 
• As the governing body for co-operatives in Fiji, the department actively monitors  them and provides 
advisory services.  
• The Ministry is also working closely with the UN  Capital Development Fund to support research 
contributing to the development of climate disaster risk financing for MSMEs . It has also partnered 
with the FAO to provide inclu sive learning materials to fisher co-operatives.  
Source:  Compiled by the WTO Secretariat based on information provided by the authorities.  
3.3.2   Standards and other technical requirements  
3.47.   The Trade Standards and Quality Control Act 1992 ( TSQCA ) continues to pro vide the legal 
and institutional framework on standardi zation in Fiji. The TSQCA has been substantially amended 
after industry -wide consultations were conducted and relevant amendments were considered in a 
new bill. 
3.48.   The Department of National Trade Measure ment and Standards (DNTMS), previously known 
as Fiji Trade Standards and Quality Control Office, under the MTCSME , remains responsible for 
preparing, developing, and promoting standards related to goods, services, processes, and practices 
used or produced in Fiji.17 The DNTMS administers standards for the protection of the health and 
safety of consumers and the environment , as well as for industrial development.  
3.49.   The Minister of the MTCSME is empowered to declare standards for quality of commodities, 
processes, practices, and services imported into or exported from Fiji.18 In doing so, the Minister of 
MTCSME considers recommendations from the Trade Standards Advisory Council (TSAC) that 
represent the interests of both industries and consum ers. Mandatory standards must be approved 
by the Cabinet. Draft standards are made available online for public comments.19 All comments 
 
17 TSQCA , Section  16.  
18 TSQCA , Sections  25.1 and 26.1 . 
19 Public comments are not available for ISO, IEC , and Australian and New  Zealand  Standards. MCTTT, 
Public Comment Section . Viewed at:  https://mcttt.gov.fj/division/national -trade -measurement -and-
standards/standards/public -comment -section/ .  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 40 - 
 
 submitted during a designated period (usually 60 days) are reviewed and , if necessary, the standard 
is modified.  
3.50.   In 1998 , the DNTMS signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Standards Australia 
International, which gave Fiji a platform from which it approached standardization issues.20 The MoU 
enabled DNTMS to adopt and modify Australian Standards as Fiji Standards. The DNTMS has a full 
membership in the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the Pacific Area 
Standards Congress (PASC). It is also affiliated with the International Electrotechnical Commission 
(IEC).  
3.51.   The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat  initiated the Pacific Quality Infrastructure  (PQI),  which 
aims to strengthen a demand -oriented quality infrastructure ( QI) and access to services that 
enhance trade competitiveness in the Pacific region. One of the major objectives of the PQI is 
establish ing regional QI frameworks for standardi zation, metrology, conformity assessment, and 
quality promotion in Fiji and the rest of the Pacific region.  
3.52.   During the review period, Fiji adopted a mandatory standard on steel reinforcing materials, 
which entered in to effect on 1  January  2021.21 Local manufacturing industries were concerned about 
the quality of steel bars that were imported into the Fiji markets, which were unsuitable for seismic 
regions such as Fiji. As such, the steel reinforcing standard was amend ed to recognize the 
New Zealand  specifications , as Fiji and New  Zealand  share the same geographical and seismic 
regions. Fiji also modified existing mandatory standards on production and export of bottled water , 
production and import of fuels , and the impo rt of household electric refrigerating appliances . 
3.53.   As at February  2023, Fiji has 13  mandatory standards and 61  voluntary standards , of which 
65 were directly adopted from Australian and New  Zealand  standards. Australian and New  Zealand  
standards are preferred, in light of those countries' favourable geographical location and the 
availability of experts on various standards projects. Mandatory and voluntary standards are 
published on official website s.22 
3.54.   As at March  2023, Fiji has one independent accredited laboratory where a wide range of 
services in the analyses of foods, feeds , and water can be offered. There are other internal accredited 
testing laboratories that can also test water , as well as material used for building and construction.  
3.55.   Recently, the DNTMS has not published any compulsory food safety standards.  
3.56.   As at March  2023, the DNTMS has not made any recent regulatory changes in labelling 
requirements, import licensing scheme of pharmaceutic als, or the drug registration process.  
3.57.   The DNTMS remains the TBT notification authority and enquiry point to the WTO. During the 
review period, Fiji did not submit any notifications to the TBT Committee and did not receive any 
specific trade concerns raise d by other Members.  
3.58.   All imported goods must be labelled with the country and company of make, and, for clothing, 
display washing instructions and fabric content. Packaged goods must be labelled with quality 
certification and weight. The Food Safety Act als o covers regulations for labelling and packaging of 
food products , e.g. manufacturers', importers', packers' , and distributors' name ; ingredients, 
prescribed nutritional information ; shelf-life expiry date ; and other mandatory Codex labelling 
requirements.  If not met, importers may be directed to re -label within 30 days. All beverage products 
in Fiji require use -by-date labelling and details of contents on packaging.  
3.59.   Fiji has no food labelling requirements for genetically modified organism ( GMO) foods or 
restrictions on their importation or production; this issue is currently under discussion.  
 
20 MCTTT, Standards . Viewed at:  https://mcttt.gov.fj/division/national -trade -measurement -and-
standards/standards/ .  
21 Trade Standards (Steel Reinforcing Materials) Order 2020.  
22 Mandatory s tandards (technical regulations) are published on: https://mcttt.gov.fj/division/national -
trade -measurement -and-standards/standards/mandat ory-standards/ . Voluntary standards are published on: 
http://pasc.standards.org.au /. WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 41 - 
 
 3.3.3   Sanitary and phytosanitary requirements  
3.60.   Fiji regulates and controls the movement of animals and plants into, out of, and within Fiji, 
primarily under the B iosecurity Act 2008 and its subsidiary regulations.23 The Biosecurity Authority 
of Fiji (BAF), established under the Biosecurity Act 2008, is mandated to discharge necessary 
functions including (i)  protection of Fiji against the entry of regulated pests an d diseases; 
(ii) surveillance pests and diseases in Fiji; and (iii)  facilitation of safe import and export of animals 
and plants and their products.24 The Ministry of Health and Medical Services is mandated to regulate 
the food safety aspects under the pro visions of the Food and Safety Act 2003; and the Food Safety 
Regulation 2009.  
3.61.   BAF is a notification authority and an enquiry point under the WTO SPS  Agreement. During 
the review period, Fiji did not submit any notifications to the SPS Committee and did not  receive 
any specific trade concerns by other Members.  
3.62.   Fiji is a member of the Codex Alimentarius Commission, the World Organisation for Animal 
Health (WOAH, formerly OIE), and the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC).25 
3.63.    During the review peri od, Fiji made some regulatory changes according to International 
Standards for Phytosanitary Measures (ISPMs) adopted by the IPPC. The BAF continuously 
implements ISPMs as they are adopted by the IPPC. In 2021, the BAF underwent institutional 
changes to fo llow recommendations in the ISPMs. Such changes include revamping of the BAF 
Operations Standard Operating Procedures and upgrading of BAF laboratories to the New  Zealand 
MPI Standard. Revised BAF import requirements based on ISPMs are also continuously up graded. 
The BAF further conducted inspection and certification programmes . It also reformed the procedures 
for inspections and verifications to provide a better phytosanitary certification and improve 
confidence in the certification process.  
3.64.   In July  2020, the BAF began to issue electronic phytosanitary certificates (ePhyto) for 
commercial consignments exported from Fiji, with a view to replacing its paper -based phytosanitary 
documentation system. This was done by implementing the IPPC ePhyto Solution. The B AF started 
the exchange of ePhyto initially with New  Zealand and, since March  2023, it has connected the 
traders and satellite BAF offices to the new system. The BAF has indicated that the digitalization of 
the procedures has significantly improved trade e fficiency by reducing the time and cost of conveying 
paper documentation through freight and third -party services, and reduced non -compliance caused 
by misplacement or late submission of original phytosanitary certificates. Since March  2023, the BAF 
has go ne paperless only with the United  States.  
3.65.   During the review period, Fiji discussed maximum residue limits with its counterparts, and 
took localized measures to address the issue before it became a trade concern. Part VII (Incidental 
Constituents) of the Fo od Safety Regulation 2009 under the Food and Safety Act 2003 provides 
guidance on the maximum residual allowance of pesticides, mycotoxins, and veterinary drugs.  
3.66.   Fiji has bilateral quarantine agreements with Australia on papaya, fresh ginger, and other 
fresh and frozen produce; with New  Zealand on papaya, eggplant, chillies, herbs, pineapple, 
breadfruit, mango, Tahiti and Meyer lemons , and other fresh and frozen products; with 
Papua  New Guinea on coffee and copra; with Tonga on watermelon, yams, and vanilla ; and with 
Vanuatu on any animal products. Fiji also has a bilateral agreement regarding apple and pear imports 
from China, and general bilateral quarantine agreements (BQAs) on cooperation with Australia, 
Indonesia, Japan, New  Zealand, and the Philippines . 
3.67.   The importation of regulated plant and plant products into Fiji is facilitated through import 
permits while the non -regulated articles can be imported without an import permit. For new requests 
 
23 Other legislation relating to sanitary and phytosanitary requirements includes the Food and Safety Act 
2003; Food Safety Reg ulation 2009; Notifiable Pests and Diseases (Plant) Order 2022; Notifiable Pests and 
Diseases (Animal) Order 2022; Goats (Earmarks) Act 1955; Protection of Animals Act 1954; Stock 
Improvement Act 1932; Dairies Act 1965; Meat Industry Act 1969; Food Safety Act 2003; Public Health Act 
1935; Endangered & Protected Species Act 2002; Fisheries Act 1941; Offshore Fisheries Act 2012; Trade 
Standards & Quality Control Act 1992; Maritime Transport Act 2013; and Pesticides Act 1971.  
24 Biosecurity Act 2008, Section  9. 
25 WTO document G/SPS/GEN/49/Rev.12, 20  January  2015.  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 42 - 
 
 to import goods from countries where a pathway is not yet established, an Import Risk Analysis 
(IRA) is conducted to determine the quarantine risk and to develop phytosanitary me asures. 
Phytosanitary treatments such as fumigation and cold treatment are the various options considered 
to facilitate importation.  
3.68.   Fiji has currently prohibited the import of poultry and poultry products from Australia, pork 
and products for personal use , and honey from all countries. It has also established more than 
40 import/export pathways from various countries.  
3.69.   Fiji strictly prohibits importation of GMOs. Thus, there is no requirement for labelling and 
environmental risk assessment applied to such c rops. 
3.3.4   Competition policy  and price controls  
3.70.   The Fijian Competition and Consumer Act 201026 (2010 Act) provides a general regulatory 
framework with a view to promoting efficient competition and consumer interests.27 The 2010 Act 
also aims to ensure equitabl e returns for businesses with fair and reasonable prices charged to 
consumers. The Act empowers the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC)28 to 
discharge various functions such as (i)  competition adjudication and enforcement; (ii)  consumer 
prote ction and enforcement; (iii)  price control and monitoring; and (iv)  economic regulation in 
certain industries, including specific provisions to protect women, rural residents , and other 
disadvantaged groups (Table  A3.6). 
3.71.   The 2010 Act stipulates prohibited categories of restrictive trade practices , as well as unfair 
practices.29 Many of the offences related to the abuse of dominant positions are within the scope of 
provisions on misuse of market power (Section  66), anti-competitive conduct (Sectio n 67), and 
unconscionable conduct (Section  76).30 The FCCC may initiate assessment and investigation of such 
practices.  
3.72.   Mergers that will result in obtaining or strengthening a position to dominate a market are 
prohibited.31 With a view to helping business es carry out their transactions without risking legal 
actions taken by the FCCC, Fiji operates a pre -notification regime for domestic mergers and 
acquisitions.32 Under the regime, businesses that plan to acquire, directly or indirectly, any shares 
in the capital, or any assets, may obtain a clearance (authorization) from the FCCC before completing 
the transaction. While such an authorization is in force, the author ized businesses can carry out the 
proposed transaction without risk of legal action taken by the FCCC. At the time of writing, Fiji 
operates a voluntary notification regime for domestic mergers and acquisitions,  and also assesses 
overseas transactions invo lving businesses that operate in Fiji. The authorities are  currently 
reviewing the 2010 Act. They are working towards ensuring that there is a mandatory 
pre-notification system  based on a threshold with a view to reinforcing the monitoring role of FCCC .33 
3.73.   For its merger assessment, the FCCC requests that applicants provide information about 
(i) details of the proposed transaction ; and (ii)  market information and concentration. Moreover, 
submissions should relate to the reasons why the merger/acquisition sho uld be permitted. Applicants 
may make reference to the likely intensity of competition in relevant markets in the aftermath of 
the proposed merger/acquisition, benefits to the public or consumers likely to arise from the 
proposed merger/acquisition, or any  other relevant features of the transaction that the applicant 
believes should be considered by the FCCC. The application will be assessed in accordance with the 
FCCC's Merger Assessment Guidelines.  
 
26 It was previously the Commerce Commission Decree.  
27 2010 Act , Section  2.1. 
28 It was previously the Fiji Commerce Commission.  
29 2010 Act , Parts 6 and 7 . 
30 OECD  (2021) , Economic Analysis and Evidence in Abuse Cases – Contribution from Fiji , 7 December.  
Viewed at: https://one.oecd.org/document/DAF/COMP/GF/WD(2021)17/en/pdf .  
31 2010 Act , Section  72.  
32 2010 Act , Section  150A.7.  
33 FCCC, Strategic Plan (2018 -2023).  Viewed at: https: //fccc.gov.fj/wp -content/uploads/2018/09/SP -
FCCC -17_Final.pdf .  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 43 - 
 
 3.74.   In August  2017, Fiji amended the Act to insert or refine definitions of several terms, including 
"market", "trade and commerce", "traders", and "exclusionary provisions", to give more clarity to 
relevant competition analysis.  
3.75.   Several guidelines were also drafted during the review period. The Merger Assessment 
Guidelines (drafted in 2021) set out criteria by which mergers and acquisitions are assessed by the 
competition team. The guidelines were developed with informal collaboration from the Competition 
and Markets Authority, and they describe different assessment  approach es. The Business 
Collaboration Assistance Guidelines (drafted in 2020) sets out the acceptable framework for business 
collaboration. Originally designed to tackle supply chain problems during  the pandemic, the 
Guidelines are currently being revise d. The Cartel Leniency Guidelines (drafted in 2021 ) set out a 
mechanism for allowing participants in prohibited collusive conduct to seek leniency by helping the 
FCCC prosecute other participants. It describes the process framework and the extent of leniency 
available to applicants under different circumst ances. The Pharmacy Competition Assessment 
Guidelines (drafted in 2022-23) set out the framework for carrying out competition assessments 
incorporated into the Pharmacy Licensing regime. The Pharmacy  Act was revised to increase the 
number of pharmacies a r egistered pharmacist could own from two to five to allow them to expand 
their business where pharmacy services are needed . The revisions included the rules for automatic 
renewal of pharmacies. The amendment addressed the anti -competitive nature of the Act to ensure 
that pharmacy businesses can compete more effectively.  
3.76.   According to the authorities, d uring the review period, three major competition cases were 
reviewed , resulting in the following outcome s: (i) approval with undertaking; (ii)  approval with 
undertaking granted in Fiji but failed to receive approval in Papua  New Guinea ; and (iii) conditional 
approval granted by the FCCC . No competition case laws were tested in court during the review 
period.  
3.77.   The FCCC is also responsible for asses sing proposed access agreements34 under the Act. Upon 
a mandatory notification from a person who proposes to enter  or change  an access agreement, the 
FCCC may give advice about the proposal to the person who notified the proposal and to the 
Minister.35 The FCCC maintains a register of valid access agreements. During the review period, Fiji 
did not make any change to this access regime.  
3.78.   The FCCC may recommend the imposition of price -control orders for goods and services at 
wholesale and retail levels, to add ress problems arising from weak competition in concerned 
markets.36 Goods and services under price control include various commodities, energy bills, 
infrastructure services fees (e.g. telecommunication s, postal) , and transport fees (Table  A3.7). 
3.79.   According to the authorities, Fiji has adopted the Cost-Plus-Mark-Up approach to fixing and 
declaring prices of good s for control purposes. The approach consists of adding an allowable mark -up 
on the cost to arrive at the proposed price.  The price review process involves the stakeholder making 
a submission for review , supported by the required documentary evidence (submission checklist) 
for the purpose s of pricing. Adopting the Cost-Plus-Mark-Up approach, the prices for the price control 
items are fixed and declared by the Commission.  
3.80.   During the last three years (2019 -22), the FCCC conducted on site inspections, where a total 
of 45,433 traders were inspected to monitor prices and found that 2,753  traders did not comply with 
the 2010 Act. The inspections found that 1,327 traders failed to have prices indicated and 
1,426  traders offered a price exceeding the maximum authorized price.  
3.81.   In August  2017, Fiji amended the 2010 Act to impose more obligations on traders. Specifically, 
the amended Act requires that at the time of sale, traders supply to every purchaser a receipt 
containing certain information  (e.g. price, quantity, weight, date of purchase, and the name of the 
trader)  and retain a copy of such receipt.37 The amendment also extended the period during which 
 
34 "Access agreement" is defined as an agreement under an access regime for the granting of access to 
infrastructure facilities or to services provided by means of infrastructure facilities  (2010 Act , Section  4).  
35 2010 Act , Section  26.  
36 2010 Act , Section  44.  
37 2010 Act , Section  55A.  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 44 - 
 
 traders must maintain documents concerning any business , including selling of goods and services , 
from three  years to seven  years since the documents originated.38 
3.82.   The FCCC aims to ensure that price cont rols are applied in an economically justified and 
efficient manner. To that end, during the review period, the FCCC conducted few controls/surveys. 
In August  2017, the FCCC embarked in its endeavour  towards providing a dynamic and efficient 
method of approving and communicating price changes to all stakeholders , beginning with the 
development of the  Electronic Pricing Portal System ( ePricing portal). The project was aimed at 
eliminating the cost of a dministering price control s, eliminating any delays in processing submissions 
from both stakeholders and the FCCC , and also improving efficiencies in pricing. According to the 
authorities, t o date the use of the ePricing p ortal has resulted in a 50% increa se in price revision 
compared to previous years.  
3.83.   Fiji intends to further modernize the 2010 Act with a view to reforming its competition and 
consumer protection regime. The reform process is underway in cooperation with the Asian 
Development Bank  (ADB) .39 
3.3.5   State trading, state -owned enterprises, and privatization  
3.84.   In 1999, Fiji notified the WTO that the Fiji Sugar Corporation  (FSC) was a state trading 
enterprise, which had exclusive rights to export raw sugar and molasses.40 Fiji has not submitted 
any further notifications.  
3.85.   Fiji proceeds with a state -owned enterprise (SOE)41 reform to improve the productivity and 
profitability of SOEs. In July  2019, it introduced the Public Enterprises Act 2019 with a view to 
updating and ali gning its legislation to international best practices.42 The new Act aims to provide 
for the regulation and governance of public enterprises according to five public enterprise principles: 
(i) commercial objective; (ii)  measurable performance; (iii)  respon sible management; 
(iv) transparent performance; and (v)  monitored performance.43 The Government expects that the 
Act helps to improve governance, accountability, and transparency of SOEs, and to strengthen its 
commercial mandate.44 
3.86.   The new Act defines a "public enterprise" as an entity that is (i)  controlled by the Government; 
and (ii)  specified in the Act  or designated as a public enterprise by the Minister subject to the 
approval of the Cabinet.45 The Minister may designate an entity as a public enterprise if it is in the 
public interest that the entity is governed by the public enterprise principles above.46 As at 
August  2022, there are listed 13  public enterprises in Fiji. There are also 11  enterprises not listed 
as public enterprises whose boar d members are appointed by the Government. Such enterprises 
operate in various sectors of both infrastructure services and commercial activities (Table  3.4). 
3.87.   During the review period, Fiji carried out a partial divestment of two entities. The Government 
divested 59% of its shares of the Fiji Ports Corporation Ltd (FPCL) in November  2015 
 
38 2010 Act , Section  56.3.  
39 ADB, Fiji: Supporting Competition Policy and Law Reform . Viewed at: 
https://www.adb.org/projects/53289 -001/main .  
40 WTO document  G/STR/N/4/FJI, 19  February  1999.  
41 According to the authorities , an SOE is a corporatized entity with a commercial mandate in which the 
State holds a controlling equity stake.  
42 This Act repealed the Public Enterprise Act 1996.  
43 Public Enterprises Act 2019 , Sections  3 and 6 . 
44 Parliament of the Republic of Fiji, Report on the Public Enterprises Bill 2019 (Bill No.  4 of 2019).  
Viewed at: https://www.parliament.gov.fj/wp -content/uploads/2019/05/Standing -Committee -Justice-Lawa-
Human -Rights -Report -on-the-Public -on-Public -Enterprises -Bill-2019.pdf .  
45 Public Enterprises Act 2019 , Section  8.1. (The Act abolished the categories of "government 
commercial companies" and "commercial statutory authorities".)  
46 Public Enterprise s Act 2019 , Section  9.1. WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 45 - 
 
 (Section  4.4.3).47 In March  2021, the Government also divested 24% of its shares in Energy Fiji Ltd 
(EFL) while it remains as a majority shareholder (51%) (Section  4.2).48 
3.88.   Fiji aims to promote public -private partnerships (PPP) with a view to implementing priority 
investment and infrastructure projects in line with the Government's development objectives. In 
2016, Fiji repealed the Public Private Partnerships Act 2006 with a  view to, inter alia, eliminating 
certain restrictions that discouraged investment. This Act was subsequently substituted by Public 
Private Partnership Policy 2019.49 The new PPP Policy sets out items such as (i)  definition; 
(ii) objectives and scope; (iii ) processes and approvals; (iv)  institutional responsibilities for PPPs; 
(v) PPP commercial principles; and (vi) fiscal management and accounting for PPPs. In 2020, the 
Government also published a detailed implementation guideline within the 2019 policy fr amework.50 
Table  3.4 State -owned enterprise s, 2023  
Category/entity  Core activities and social obligations  Government 
shareholding 
(%) 
Public enterprises  
Fiji Airports (FA)a Manages the operation of Nadi and Nausori 
international airports as well as 13 other outer 
island airstrips in Fiji  100 
Fiji Broadcasting Corporation Ltd 
(FBCL)b Operates six commercial radio stations (two of 
which are classified as public service broadcast 
stations) and television services  100 
Fiji Hardwood Corporation Ltd 
(FHCL)  Is responsible for managing all operations 
regarding the planting, growing, harvesting and 
sale of mahogany timber on mahogany plantation 
land 100 
Fiji Public Trustee Corporation Ltd 
(FPTCL)c Provides trust and estate administration services 
together with relevant legal services  100 
Food Processors  (Fiji) Pte Ltd 
(FPFL)d Provides p rocessing and value added of locally 
grown agro -food (e.g. fruits, vegetables, seafood , 
and root crops) for sale in the local and export 
markets  100 
Post Fiji Ltd (PFL)  Provides postal, courier , and agency services, and 
post shop operations  100 
Fiji Rice Pte Ltd (FRL)  Provides m illing and sale of rice and poultry feed 100 
Unit Trust of Fiji (Management) Ltd 
(UTOFML)  Administers and makes investment decision s for 
the Trust and its clients including the Government  100 
Yaqara Pastoral Company Pte Ltd 
(YPCL)  Engages in  livestock farming, sugar cane , and 
other  horticultural  production  100 
Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF)  Manages quarantine controls at the borders to 
minimize the risk of exotic pests and diseases 
entering Fiji , and provides import and export 
inspection and certification to help retain Fiji's 
favourable animal, plant , and human status and 
wide access to overseas export markets  100 
Fiji Meats Industry Board (FMIB)  Operates public slaughtering facilities for the 
protection, preservation, and expansion of the 
meat industry in Fiji, and purchases and trades in 
livestock, meat, and by products   100 
Pacific Fishing Company Pte Ltd 
(PAFCO)  Processes loin and fish (tuna) canning for local and 
overseas markets  99.6 
Fiji Coconut Millers Pte Ltd (FCML)e Manufactures and distributes coconut oil and other 
related products  96.0 
 
47 For FPCL, 20% was divested to Sri  Lanka n conglomerate Aitken Spence PLC and 39% to the Fiji 
National Provident Fund ( FNPF). 
48 In April  2018, 5% of non -voting shares were offered to EFL's eligible domestic accountholders at nil 
cost. In October  2019, 20% shares were divested to the FNPF with the Government retaining 75%. In addition 
to the 24% of shares divested by the Government in 2021, the FNPF also sold its interest to the new 
shareholder Sevens Pacific Pte Ltd (which now holds 44% shareholding) in EFL.  
49 Ministry of Economy, Public Private Partnership Policy 2019 . Viewed at : 
https://www.economy.gov.fj/images/Publ icEnterprise/Revised -PPP-Policy.pdf .  
50 Ministry of Economy, Public Private Partnership Implementation Guideline 2020 . Viewed at : 
http://www.economy.gov.fj/images/Resources/DebtReport/ADB/PPP -Implementation -Guideline -2020.pdf .  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 46 - 
 
 Category/entity  Core activities and social obligations  Government 
shareholding 
(%) 
Not listed as public enterprises  
Housing Authority Produces lots and housing units , and provides 
mortgage financing for low -income customers  100 
Public Rental Board  Provides and manages rental housing for low - and 
middle -income earners  100 
Water Authority of Fiji  Provides access to drinking water and waste -water 
services to more than 700,000 people  100 
Viti Corp Corporation Ltd  Leasing of land and property for agricultural and 
other purposes  100 
Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji  Oversees and acts as a regulator for the maritime 
sector  100 
Fiji Pine Ltd  Owns and operates sawmill s and chip plant s, and 
produces woodchips  99.8 
Fiji Sugar Corporation Ltd Is a s ugar milling company with the monopoly on 
production of all raw sugar in Fiji  68.0 
Energy Fiji Ltd (EFL) Provides energy solutions to customers in Fiji 
through the use of all types of energy sources  51.0 
Air Pacific Ltd T/A Fiji Airways & 
Subsidiaries (FA) Operates international and domestic airline services 
in the Pacific , North America , and Japan  51.0 
Air Terminal Services (Fiji) Ltd Is the o nly ground -handling company and flight 
catering operation in Fiji that provides total 
ground -handling services  51.0 
Fiji Ports Corporation Ltd ( FPCL) Owns, operates , and has regulatory oversight for 
all declared ports in Fiji  41.0 
a Fiji Airports. Viewed at: 
http://www.airportsfiji.com/corporate_profile.php#:~:text=FA%20owns%20and%20manages%20N
adi,80%25%20of%20which%20a re%20tourists . 
b Fiji Broadcasting Corporation, About the FBC . Viewed at: https://www.fbcnews.com.fj/about/ . 
c Fiji Public Trustee Corporation Ltd, About Us . Viewed at: https://fijipublictrustee.com/about -us/. 
d Food Processors, FPFL Products . Viewed at: https://www.foodprocessors.com.fj/FPFL_Products .aspx . 
e Fiji Coconut Millers Ltd. Viewed at: http://www.coconut.com.fj/mission/ . 
Source:  Information provided by the authorities.  
3.3.6   Government procurement  
3.89.   Fiji is not a party or an observer to the WTO plurilateral Agreement on Government 
Procurement (GPA). During the review period, Fiji did not conclude any agreements with its trading 
partners concerning government procurement.  
3.90.   The Financial Management Act 2 004 and its subsidiary legislation , the Procurement 
Regulations 2010, continue to provide a general regulatory framework for government procurement. 
The Fiji Procurement Office (FPO) in the Ministry of Economy is mandated to regulate and administer 
the pro curement of goods, services, and works for the Government.51 Such mandates include 
formation of appropriate procurement policies, as well as monitoring compliance of procurement 
functions and activities across the Government. The Government Tender Board (G TB) is responsible 
for approving all procurement of goods, services , and works valued at FJD  50,001 or more.52 
Procurements valued at FJD  50,000 or less do not require tender.53 Procurement below FJD 50,000 
is managed by various ministries. An amendment to  the Act came into force in 2021 through the 
Financial Management (Amendment) Act 2021.  
3.91.   The previous Secretariat Report describes Fiji's current procurement proceedings under the 
Procurement Regulations 2010 in detail.54 
3.92.   In July  2021, Fiji enacted an amendment to the Financial Management Act 2004 to allow the 
Procurement Regulations 2010 to prescribe matters that are necessary or convenient for the 
 
51 Procurement Regulations 2010 , Regulation 5 . 
52 Procurement Regulations 2010 , Regulation 9 . In August  2020, Fiji increased the number of GTB board 
members from four to six. See Procurement (Amendment) Regulations 2020 . 
53 Procurement Regulations 2010 , Regulation 29 . 
54 WTO document  WT/TPR/S/330/Rev.1 , 26 April 2016, p aras. 3.97-3.109 . WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 47 - 
 
 purpose s of procurement.  Specifically, the Regulations prescribe matters including (i ) guiding 
principles that govern procurement; (ii)  establishment and functions of a central regulation and 
administration office as well as the approving authorities for procurement; (iii)  general control of 
procurement including the process of sourcing fr om planning to disposal; and (iv)  disclosure and 
reporting requirements for procurement for budget sector agencies.55 The authorities state that  
there is an ongoing review of the Procurement Regulations by the ADB to align the regulations to 
amendments to the Financial Management Act. According to the authorities,  the ADB finished a 
protracted stakeholder engagement in Fiji in 2022 and is currently working on producing the first 
draft of the amended Procurement Regulations. There are plans to add sustainable procurement 
provisions  and a procurement code of conduct , and to clarify conditions for excluding suppliers from 
a procurement process ( debarment, suspension, and disqualification). Additionally, existing 
procedures are being examined consideri ng best practices to make sure they are clear and produce 
an effective and efficient procurement system under changing business conditions.  
3.93.   In FY2021/22, the GTB approved 179 projects under its procurement regime (Table  3.5). Most 
of the approved projects were concentrated in the construction and civil works sector. The total 
value of approved contracts amounted to FJD  72.31  million , of which domestic suppliers and 
contractors accounted for 86.1%.  
Table  3.5 Key indicators of government procurement, FY2018/19-FY2021/ 2022 
  FY2018 /19 FY2019 /20 FY2020 /21 FY2021 /22 
Number of projects  311 196 242 179 
Contract value (FJD  million ) 391.90  67.29  70.53  72.31  
 Breakdown by category      
 Goods  20 23 43 12 
 Services  20 4 17 41 
 Works  59 73 40 47 
Local share (contract value, %)  .. 72.24  55.94  86.1 
.. Not available.  
Note:  The figures are based on Fiji's fiscal year, which starts on 1  August and ends on the following 
31 July. 
Source:  Fiji Procurement Office, Annual Report , various editions  (2019/2020, 2020/2021, 2021/2022). 
Viewed  at: https://www.fpo.gov.fj/index.php/about -us3/annual -statistics . 
3.94.   During the review period, Fiji accelerated digitalization of the tender process with a view to 
increasing its accessibility, efficiency, and transparency. In June  2018, the Government introduced 
an online e -tendering website where it publishes invitation s to tender, proposals, expression s of 
interest , and quotation requests.56 In 2019, the internal evaluation of government tender became 
available online. In 2021, the Government began to provide online tender status tracking tools.57 
3.95.   As for tender participation, the FP O analyses in its latest publication that there is a significant 
increase in tender participation compared to previous years.58 More tender documents are 
downloaded from the e-tender portal, indicating the interest from suppliers in government tenders. 
The number of bids submitted per tender was seven  in FY2021 /22. The FPO intends to help convert 
more downloads to actual submission s by running workshop s for potential suppliers, especially 
SMEs.  
3.96.   There is no set procedure for dealing with domestic and overseas providers. When market 
research and procurement plans show the need to choose a local supplier, ministries may specify 
their choice in the tender documents.  
 
55 Financial Management (Amendment) Act 2021 , Section  21.  
56 Ministry of Economy, Online E-tendering Website . Viewed at: 
https://portal.tenderlink.com/economyfiji/login?ReturnUrl=%2Feconomyfiji .  
57 Ministry of Economy, Online Tender Status Tracking . Viewed at: 
https://www.fpo.gov.fj/index.php/for -suppliers/tender -status .  
58 Fiji Procurement Office, Annual Reports (2021/2022) . Viewed at: 
https://www.fpo.gov.fj/index.php/about -us3/annual -statistics .  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 48 - 
 
 3.3.7   Intellectual prop erty rights  
3.97.   Fiji's intellectual property ( IP) regime is mainly governed by the Patents Act 1879, the 
Trade -Marks  Act 1933, and the Copyright Acts 1999. During the review period, Fiji did not make 
substantive amendments to these instruments. The previous Se cretariat Report provides the 
overviews of these Acts in detail.59 
3.98.   However, in August  2021, the Parliament passed three key pieces of legislation: the Patents 
Act 2021, the Trademarks Act 2021, and the Designs Act 2021. At the time of writing, these Acts 
were not force, and the Government did not publish any subsidiary legislation. Nonetheless, the 
authorities state that this is a priori ty for the Government, and it will be addressed as soon as 
possible.  
3.99.   The Fiji Intellectual Property Office (FIPO) falls under the purview of the Solicitor -General. As 
such, the administration and implementation of IP legislation falls under the responsibil ity of the 
Solicitor -General in its capacity as Commissioner  of the FIPO. 
3.100.   In March  2016, the WTO TRIPS Council concluded its review of Fiji's IP laws and regulations 
under Article  63.2 of the TRIPS  Agreement .60 During the review process, Fiji answered 83 q uestions 
filed by Canada, the European  Union , Japan, Switzerland, and the United  States . In May  2017, Fiji 
notified its acceptance of the Protocol amending the TRIPS  Agreement  concerning patents and public 
health.61 
3.101.   Fiji remains a party to four World Intel lectual Property Organization ( WIPO ) treaties: the 
WIPO Convention, the Berne Convention (for t he Protection of Literary and Artistic Works), the Rome 
Convention (for the Protection of Performers, Producers of Phonograms and Broadcasting 
Organizations) , and the Geneva Convention (for the Protection of Producers of Phonograms against 
Unauthorized Duplication of their Phonograms).62 On 2 September  2020, the Government approved 
the following IP treaties for ratification: (i)  the Madrid Agreement Concerning the International 
Registration of Marks 1981 (Madrid Agreement); (ii)  the Protocol Relating to the Madrid Agreement 
(Madrid Protocol); and (iii)  the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property. Fiji is 
currently in discussions wit h WIPO regarding the deposit of the instruments of ratification.  
3.3.7.1   Patents  
3.102.   Under the Patents Act 2021, Fiji has updated and modified the existing legislative framework 
concerning patents by repealing the Patents Act 1879. In doing so, the Government aims to,  
inter alia: (i) provide an efficient and effective patent system that strikes a balance between the 
interest of investors/patent owners and the interest of society in line with Fiji's international 
obligations; and (ii)  ensure that a patent is granted for  an invention only in appropriate 
circumstances based on clear criteria and procedures.63 
3.103.   Under the Patents Act 2021  (Sections  51 and 200) , the Solicitor -General, who acts as the 
Commissioner of Patents under the Act, examines patent applications. A patent is granted for an 
invention only if the invention is  (compared with the prior art base ) novel, involves an inventive 
step, and is useful.64 
3.104.   The Act introduces several provisions that benefit patent applicants and owners. For 
example,  the Act stipulates a 1-year grace period for disclosure of invention prior to the filing65, 
 
59 WTO document  WT/TPR/S/330/Rev.1 , 26 April  2016, p aras. 3.119 -3.133. 
60 WTO document  IP/Q/FJI/1, IP/Q2/FJI/1, IP/Q3/FJI/1, IP/Q4/FJI/1, 20  May 2016. 
61 WTO document  WT/Let/1254, 17  May 2017. 
62 WIPO, Country Profiles:  Fiji. Viewed at: 
https://www.wipo.int/directory/en/details.jsp?country_code=FJ .  
63 Patents Act 2021 , Section  3. 
64 Patents Act 2021 , Section  12. 
65 Patents Act 2021 , Section  7. WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 49 - 
 
 extension of the term of patent (from 14 years under the current Act to 20 years)66, priority right 
and application67, and divisional application.68 
3.105.   The Patents Act 2021 established a compulsory licen sing system: any person may apply to 
the High Court of Fiji for the grant of licence under a patent on the grounds that a market for the 
patented invention is not being supplied in Fiji or is not being supplied on rea sonable terms in Fiji.69 
In case of default of an agreement between the licensee and the patentee on the amount of 
remuneration payable to the latter, the High Court is empowered to determine the amount.70 
Although a compulsory licence is limited to the su pply of the patented invention predominately in 
Fiji, the High Court may order a grant of licence for export of pharmaceutical products to certain 
countries under several conditions.71 
3.106.   The Act provides definition s of key terms such as "novel", "innovative step", "prior art base", 
and "useful".72 The Act denies patentability of an invention when its commercial exploitation is 
contrary to public order and moral s. Other non -patentable inventions include, inter alia: 
(i) diagnostic, therapeutic , and surgical methods of treatment of human beings; (ii)  natural 
substances ; and (iii) plants, animals (other than micro -organisms) , and essentially biological 
processes.73 
3.107.   Unlike the Patents Act 1879, under the Patents Act 2021, UK patents will no longer be 
registered as a right. UK applicants will be required to undergo the application process as any other 
applicant would under normal circumstances. UK patent applications received by the 
Solicitor -General before the commencement of the Patents Act 2021 wi ll be registered pursuant to 
the Patents Act 1879, if qualified.  
3.3.7.2   Trademarks  
3.108.   Under the Trademarks Act 2021, the Government aims to bring its outdated trademarks 
regime into conformity with Fiji's international legal commitments including the TRIPS  Agreement .74 
The new Act repeals the Trade -Marks Act 1933 and the Merchandise Marks Act 1933. The new Act 
aims to (i)  define the scope or rights protected by registered trademarks; (ii)  specify the procedures 
for registering trademarks in Fiji; (iii)  deter counterfeit activity in relation to registered trademarks 
in Fiji; and (iv)  ensure that Fiji's trademark regime takes account of international development s, 
particularly in relation to the Paris Convention and the Madrid System.75 
3.109.   While the Trade -Marks Act  1933 permits a trademark only in connection to goods, the 
Trademarks Act 2021 provides that a trademark is registrable in respect of particular goods and/or 
services within one or more classes.76 With regard to the method of classification of goods and 
services, the new Act stipulates that the classification must be done according to the Nice 
Classification in effect at the time of application for the registration of the trademark.77 
3.110.   Under the Trademarks Act 2021, registrability of certification trademarks  as well as of 
collective trademarks is also permitted.78 The Act provides that the registration of a trademark 
containing or consisting of a geographical indication (GI) may be opposed on certain grounds, 
including, inter alia, that it is likely to deceive or cause confusion.79 In this connection, the Act also 
 
66 Patents Act 2021 , Section  18. 
67 Patents Act 2021 , Sections  44-49.  
68 Patents Act 2021 , Section  32. 
69 Patents Act 2021 , Section  153. This application may be accepted at any time after the later of the 
expiry of three years from the date that the patent is granted , or the expiry of four years from the patent date.  
70 Patents Act 2021 , Section  158. 
71 Patents Act 2021 , Section  154. 
72 Patents Act 2021 , Sections  4, 5, 6, and 8 . 
73 Patents Act 2021 , Section  14. 
74 Parliament, Daily Hansard (19  August  2021). Viewed at: https:// www.parliament.gov.fj/wp -
content/uploads/2021/08/Daily -Hansard -Thursday -19th-August -2021.pdf .  
75 Trademarks Act 2021 , Section  3. 
76 Trademarks Act 2021 , Section  9.1.  
77 Trademarks Act 2021 , Section  26. 
78 Trademarks Act 2021 , Sections  10 and 11 . 
79 Trademarks Act 2021 , Section  16. WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 50 - 
 
 prescribes additional protection for wines and spirits.  The Solicitor -General, who acts as the 
Commissioner of Trademarks under the Trademarks Act 2021 , examines a registration application 
to determine whether it complies with the requirements.80 The durat ion of the registration of a 
trademark is effective for a period of 10 years from the deemed date of registration.81 The 
registration may be renewed for a further period of 10 years.82 The Trademarks Act 2021, unlike its 
predecessors, does not recognize re -registration of UK  trademarks.  
3.111.   Unlike the Trade -Marks Act 1933, the Trademarks Act 2021 has new provision for the 
registration of smell, sound, taste, ticket, collective , and certification trademarks. It also provides a 
definition for geographical indicat ions unlike the previous law, which will provide clarity for the 
trademark examiners. Additionally, recourse is available under the Trademarks Act 2021 for 
counterfeit trademark goods  (Section  116). The international registration of trademarks pursuant to 
the Madrid Protocol is also provided for under the Trademarks 2021 Act, once Regulation is 
prescribed by the Minister.  
3.3.7.3   Copyrights  
3.112.   There have been no changes to the Copyright Act 1999 since the last  amendments made in 
2009. The Fiji Performing Rights Agency (FPRA) is Fiji's collective management organi zation. Since 
it is a privately owned entity  and not part of the Government, FPRA is not required to disclose any 
information to the Government regardi ng its fees. Furthermore, the Copyrights Act 1999 does not 
require copyrights to be registered. Since there are no specific provisions for the exhaustion regime 
for copyright and related rights, the international exhaustion  doctrine that a copyright owner' s right 
to control copies of his or her work "exhausts" on its first sale by the copyright owner, or the first 
sale with their consent, applies.  
3.3.7.4   Industrial designs  
3.113.   Under the current IP regime, Fiji does not provide for the protection of industrial designs.83 
However, the Designs Act 2021 sets out a legal framework under which a design may be registered 
and protected under certain conditions.84 
3.114.   A design may be registered in respect of any article or set of articles only if it is new or 
original.85 Upon the f iling of a registration application, the Solicitor -General, who acts as the 
Commissioner of Designs under the Act, determines whether a design is new or original in the 
proceedings for registration.86 The Commissioner may refuse to register a design the us e of which, 
in his or her opinion, is contrary to law or morality.87 
3.115.   Once registered, the registration of a design gives to the registered owner the exclusive right 
in Fiji to carry out various business activities to deal with any article in respect of which the design 
is registered.88 The term of registration of a design is for a period of five years from the date of 
registration.89 After the expiration of the original period, the term of registration may be extended 
 
80 Trademarks Act 2021 , Section  34. 
81 Trademarks Act 2021 , Section  52. 
82 Trademarks Act 2021 , Section  53. Under the Trade -Marks Act 1933, a national trademark registration 
needs to be renewed after 14 years, while the UK re gistration can be renewed upon the renewal of the original 
UK registration.  
83 The United  Kingdom  Designs (Protection) Act 1936 exceptionally stipulates that any design registered 
in the United  Kingdom  shall enjoy in Fiji the like privileges and rights as though the certificate of registration in 
the United  Kingdom  had been issued with an extension to Fiji.  
84 The Act defines "design" as "features of shape, configuration, pattern, or ornament applied to  an 
article by any industrial process or means, being features which in the finished article give the article its overall 
appearance but does not include a method or principle of construction or features of shape or configuration 
which are dictated solely by the function which the article to be made in that shape or configuration has to 
perform " (Part 1) . 
85 Designs Act 2021 , Section  7. 
86 Designs Act 2021 , Section  9. 
87 Designs Act 2021 , Section  61. 
88 Designs Act 2021 , Section  13. 
89 Designs Act 2021 , Section  14.1. WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 51 - 
 
 for another five years if an applica tion for extension for the second period is made in the prescribed 
manner with the necessary fee.  
3.116.   The new Act includes a provision on compulsory licence in respect of registered design.90 
3.3.7.5   Enforcement and border measures  
3.117.   According to the authorities, the FRCS with its current legislation cannot act or detain any 
IPR-infringing item if the IP holder does not lodge a valid notice of their property. Fiji lacks resources 
for IPR enforcement at the b order , as its officers do not have adequate k nowledge, training, or 
experience in IPR. There is no t a specific team within the FRCS to enforce IPR laws at the border.  
3.118.   The introduction of three new pieces of legislation in Parliament on 19  August  2021 in 
relation to IPR is considered to be a timely in tervention for Fiji to take one further step towards 
enforcement . While the legislation has been passed, there is no commencement date given as of 
yet; therefore, the laws are still not in effect in Fiji.91 
 
90 Designs Act 2021 , Section  16. 
91 The three pieces of legislation are the Trademarks Act (Act No.  36 of 2021 ); the Patents Act (Act 
No. 37 of 2021 ); and Designs Act (Act No.  38 of 2021 ). WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 52 - 
 
 4  TRADE POLICIES BY SECTOR  
4.1  Agriculture , forestry and fisheries  
4.1.  Between 2016 and 2021,  the annual contribution of agriculture, forestry , and fish eries to Fiji's 
GDP averaged 14.7%; the sector employs, directly or indirectly, close to two  thirds of the labour 
force.1 Subsistence farm ing and sugarcane production have traditionally been important for Fiji's 
agriculture.2 
4.1.1   Agriculture  
4.1.1.1   Main features  
4.2.  While waters (including mineral waters) continued to account for around one  third of the total 
agricultural export, sugar in solid form, incl uding cane sugars, decreased its share by about 
10 percentage point s between 2016 (19.4%) and 2021 (9.7%) (Table  4.1). Among major export 
items, plants primarily used in perfumery, pharmacy , or for insecticidal or similar purposes (mainly 
kava) and molasse s resulting from the extraction or refining of sugar increased substantially. Fiji is 
a net importer of agricultural products. Main import items include wheat and meslin, rice, 
concentrated milk and cream, sheep and goat meat, and soya bean oil. Rice is on e of the major 
sources of calories in Fiji; its supply remains largely dependent on imports from, inter alia, Viet Nam, 
China, and Thailand. 3 Fiji's rice self -sufficiency ratio was 16% in 2020.4 
4.3.  According to the authorities , agriculture in Fiji is characterized by the large subsistence sector, 
the predominance of small farms (of less than one hectare), low mechanization, high input costs, 
poor farming and husbandry practices, inadequate infrastructure, marketing inefficiencies , and lack 
of access to credit.  
Table  4.1 Trade in major agricultural productsa, 2016 -21 
 HS code  2016  2017  2018  2019  2020  2021  
Agricultural exports  (WTO definition) (USD  million)  288.3  358.6  331.4  327.0  272.7  316.4  
   % of total exports  31.3 34.6 32.9 33.9 33.0 38.8 
Top 10 exports at HS 4 -digit level (% of total agricultural 
exports)        
2201 Waters, excluding added sugar  35.5 32.9 38.0 41.6 25.1 33.0 
1701 Cane or beet sugar and chemically pure 
sucrose, in solid form  19.4 24.2 11.4 14.1 17.0 9.7 
   1905 Sweet biscuits and other bakers' ware  6.7 5.5 5.6 6.3 8.0 7.2 
1211 Plants, primarily used in perfumery, pharmacy 
or for insecticidal or similar purposes  2.3 2.7 4.5 4.7 6.5 6.0 
   0714 Manioc, taro and similar roots  4.3 3.3 3.7 3.9 4.9 4.8 
0910 Ginger, turmeric and other spices, mixtures 
thereof  2.9 1.7 1.4 1.7 3.8 4.7 
1703 Molasses resulting from the extraction or 
refining of sugar  0.9 2.4 2.2 2.0 3.5 4.1 
   1101 Wheat or meslin flour  4.9 3.7 4.0 4.2 4.8 3.9 
   1904 Prepared foods obtained by swelling or roasting 
cereals or cereal products  1.8 1.5 1.8 2.1 2.5 3.2 
   1902 Pasta  1.5 1.4 1.8 1.7 2.2 2.3 
Agricultural imports  (WTO definition) (USD  million)  354.3  372.8  420.1  395.6  354.3  411.4  
   % of total imports  15.4 15.5 15.4 14.2 20.5 19.4 
Top 10 imports at HS 4 -digit level (% of total agricultural 
imports)        
   1001 Wheat and meslin  12.6 11.8 10.8 13.8 14.5 12.8 
   1006 Rice  5.5 5.3 5.3 5.0 6.7 7.4 
   0402 Milk and cream, concentrated or sweetened  6.6 5.9 6.3 6.5 6.9 6.8 
   0204 Meat of sheep or goats, fresh, chilled or frozen  5.8 6.1 6.4 6.0 5.4 5.7 
 
1 International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), Fiji. Viewed at: 
https://www.ifad.org/en/web/operations/w/country/fiji .  
2 Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations  (FAO) (2016) , County Profile – Fiji. Viewed at: 
https://www.fao.org/3/CA0385EN/ca0385en.pdf .  
3 Ministry of Agriculture, 2020 Key Statistics on Fiji Agriculture Sector . Viewed at : 
https://www.agriculture.gov.fj/documents/stats/2020KEYSTATISTICS.pdf .  
4 The figure is provisional.  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 53 - 
 
  HS code  2016  2017  2018  2019  2020  2021  
   1507 Soya bean oil and its fractions  2.6 2.4 2.1 1.8 2.6 2.9 
   2106 Food preparations, n.e.s.  2.2 2.0 2.5 2.8 2.6 2.9 
   0701 Potatoes, fresh or chilled  3.9 4.4 3.7 3.3 3.6 2.8 
   2309 Preparations of a kind used in animal feeding  3.1 2.4 2.4 2.9 2.6 2.7 
1517 Margarine; edible preparations of animal or 
vegetable fats and oils  2.1 1.9 2.0 2.1 2.3 2.6 
0703 Onions, shallots, garlic, leeks and other 
alliaceous vegetables, fresh or chilled  3.3 2.7 2.1 2.9 2.6 2.6 
Note:  Top 10 agricultural exports and imports by HS 4 -digit are sorted by the year 2021.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat calculations, based on trade figures from UN Comtrade database.  
4.4.  Fiji's agricultural sector is highly vulnerable to natural disasters and climate change. In 2020, 
the agriculture sector suffered losses estimated at FJD  146.5  million with 75% crop damage during 
Tropical Cyclone Yasa.5 
4.5.  Fiji's land tenure system continues to affect its agricultural growth. About 90% of the land is 
"iTaukei land" (owned by tribal groups), which cannot be sold but only leased; 4% is held by the 
state ("state land"); and the remaining 6% is purchased, transferred, or leased subject to certain 
conditions ("freehold land").6 The iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) administers the leasing of native 
land for agricultural use on behalf of the iTaukei owners.7 Leases for commercial agriculture shall be 
for a minimum term of 30 years8 with a possibility of further extension.  As obtaining a lease can be 
a cumbersome process, much native land remains idle, and given the uncertainty regarding the 
renewal of land le ases, farmers have been reluctant to make further investments, causing production 
to decrease in certain sectors such as sugar cane and the dairy industry.  
4.6.  On 1 August  2021, Fiji amended the iTaukei Land Trust Act 1940 with a view to facilitating the 
admin istrative procedures relating to iTaukei land. Prior to the amendment, the Act required a lessee 
to obtain the consent of the TLTB when dealing with the leased iTaukei land in any manner (including 
sale, transfer , and sublease). However, the new Act exempt s the lessee from this requirement for 
certain situations , namely mortgage, charge, pledge , or caveat on a lease under the Act or for any 
such lease to be dealt with by any court of law or under the process of any court of law.  
4.1.1.2   Policy objectives  
4.7.  The Minist ry of Agriculture is mainly responsible for the Government's policies related to 
agriculture. The Ministry aims to provide food and nutrition security, income , and employment 
through a modernized and resilient agriculture sector. To that end, the Ministry shapes its policies 
in line with a number of plans including the National Develop Plan and the 5 -year Strategic 
Development Plan (2019 -2023).9 The authorities are currently reviewing the Plan s. 
4.8.  The 5 -year Strategic Development Plan (2019 -2023), linked to the National Development Plan 
and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), sets out five strategic priorities: (i)  improve food 
and nutrition security for all citizens of Fiji; (ii)  increase farmer household income for sustainable 
livelihoods; ( iii) increase adoption of sustainable resource management and climate smart 
agriculture; (iv)  establish and improve commercial agriculture ; and (v)  improve quality public sector 
performance and service delivery. In relation to the fourth priority, the Plan  indicates that Fiji 
undertakes various measures including securing farmers' access to financial assistance (loans, 
grants, insurance, and basic financial services), promotion of agri -business participation by young 
farmers, development and improvement ass istance for agro -processors and exporters, 
 
5 Government of Fiji  (2021) ," Natural Disaster s Leading Cause of Food Ins ecurity ", 23 October . Viewed 
at: https://www.fiji.gov.fj/Media -Centre/News/NATURAL -DISASTERS -LEADING -CAUSE -OF-FOOD -INSECURITY .  
6 iTaukei Land Trus t Board  (TLTB) , Land Ownership in Fiji . Viewed at: 
https://www.tltb.com.fj/getattachment/Media/Brochures/Land -Ownership -in-Fiji-Booklet-
(1).pdf.aspx?lang=en -US.  
7 The governing pieces of legislation are iTakei Land Trust Act 1940 and the Agricultural Landlords and 
Tenants Act 1966.  
8 TLTB, Agricultural Leases . Viewed at: 
https://www.tltb.com.fj/getattachment/Media/Brochures/Agriculture -Leases.pdf.aspx?lang=en -US.  
9 Other plans include People's Charter for Change, Gre en Growth, National Climate Change Policy , and 
National Adapt ation Plans. Ministry of Agriculture, 5-year Strategic Development Plan (2019 -2023) . Viewed at: 
https://www.agriculture.g ov.fj/documents/SDP2019 -2023.pdf .  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 54 - 
 
 capacity -building of farmers, and establishment of processing plants that facilitate post -harvest and 
value -added activities. According to the authorities, the mid -term review of the Strategic 
Development Plan was conducted by the Economic Policy and Statistics Division led by the Monitoring 
and Evaluation Section  with technical assistance from the European  Union  Delegation under the Fiji 
Sustainable Rural Livelihoods programme and  the FAO. 
4.1.1.3   Support measures  
4.9.  The Ministry of Agriculture implemented several supporting measures during the review period. 
On 4 August  2022, the Ministry announced the FY2022 /23 agricultural support programme, with a 
view to promoting agricultural developmen t through increased productivity and boosting foreign 
exchange earnings from the sector.10 The Ministry allocated to the programme FJD  29.2 million, 
which is equivalent to around 45% of the FY2022/23 Ministry's budget. The programme is composed 
of 28 sub -programmes that feature both newly introduced and existing development initiatives 
(Table  4.2).11 
4.10.   The Agro Marketing Authority (AMA) remains a state -governed entity, which aims to bridge 
the gap between local farmers and the market and serve the inaccessibl e and uneconomical rural, 
remote , and maritime farming communities of Fiji through the purchase, sale and export of 
agricultural products. In FY22 (fiscal year 2021 -22), FJD  4.7 million of agriculture and aquaculture 
produce was purchased from 14 provinces  in Fiji, an increase of 29% for the same period of the 
previous year. Sales increased by 28%, from FJD  3.9 million in FY21 to FJD  5.1 million in FY22, 
Export consignments increased by 28%, from 75 consignments in FY21 to 96 consignments in FY22. 
Major export destinations include Australia, New  Zealand , and the United  States . The AMA supplies 
local government institutions, hospitals, schools, supermarkets, and hotels. A total of 3,245 farmers 
were assisted through procurement of their produce.  
Table 4.2 Support measures between FY202 1/22 -FY20 22/23 
Name of initiative  
Water Tank Support Programme  Land Preparation for Young Farmers  
Stockyard Farming Support Packages  Commercial Farmers Equity Package  
Infrastructure Support to Exporters and 
Agro-Processors  Hydroponic System Programme  
Farm Mechanization Initiatives  Fruit Tree Orchard  
Irrigation Kit  Fencing Kits – Beef/Sheep/ Goat Cattle Farms 
Small Farming Equipment and Agro-Processing 
Machine  Women in Agriculture  
Equity Support to Agro-Exporters  Piggery Pen Initiative  
Small Holder Dairy Support  Farming Mechanization  
Poultry Shed Package Support   Commercial Yaqona Farmers Support  
Farm Shed Establishment Package  Beef Stock Yard Support  
Borehole Support Programme  Draught Animal Initiative  
Goat Rearing Farm Package  Organic Farming Assistance Programme   
Sheep/ Goat Shed Package  Home – Biogas Digester Initiatives  
Pig Farrowing Crate Support   
Source:  Ministry of Agriculture, Programme Prospectus 2022 -2023. Viewed at: 
https://www.agriculture.gov.fj/agriprograms.php . 
4.11.   Tariffs continue to be the main border assistance measure. The simple average applied MFN 
tariff on agriculture was 7.5 % in 2022 (17.5% taking into account ad valorem  equivalents (AVEs) 
based on 2020 prices), down from 12.5% in 2015 (18.9% including AVEs based on 2013 prices) 
(Section  3.1.4). The product group "beverages and tobacco" commanded the highest applied tariffs. 
Fiji does not apply tariff quotas nor has it resorted to special safeguard measures for agricultural 
products. Fiji's simple average fin al bound tariff for agriculture is 40.5%.  
4.12.   Fiji did not make any domestic support reduction commitments under the WTO  Agreement  on 
Agriculture. In February  2016, Fiji notified that it did not grant or maintain any export subsidies 
 
10 Ministry of Agriculture, 2022-2023 Financial Year Agriculture Development Programmes Announced . 
Viewed at:  https://www.agriculture.gov.fj/pressdetail .php?id=432 .  
11 Ministry of Agriculture, Farmers Urged to Apply Online for Agricultural Programmes . Viewed at: 
https://www.agriculture.gov.fj/pressdetail.php?id=447 .  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 55 - 
 
 within the meaning of Article  9.1 of the Agreement on Agriculture between 2012 and 2015.12 In 
March  2016, Fiji also notified "green box" domestic support measures (subsidies) applied between 
2010 and 2015.13 
4.13.   Fiji offers several tax incentives to attract investment in the agricultural sector.14 Commercial 
farming and agro -processing businesses, approved and established between 1  January  2009 and 
31 December  2028, enjoy income tax exempt ion for 5, 10, 15 , or 20 fiscal years depending on the 
amount of capital invested. Businesses undertaking a new activity in processing agricultural 
commodities into bio -fuels, as approved by the Chief Executive Officer of the Fiji Revenue and 
Customs Service between 1  January  2009 and 31  December  2028, shall be exempted from tax for 
5, 7, or 13 years according to the amount of capital invested. Fiji provides agricultural exporters 
with 90% export income deduction to help new and existing businesses venture into agriculture 
exports and increase access to international markets. This incentive is applicable until 
31 December  2024. Moreover, importers of agricultural items, such as specialized machinery and 
equipment, may enjoy duty -free imports subject to certa in conditions.  
4.1.1.4   Sugar  
4.14.   Sugar production and related activities remain vital for Fiji's economy. The industry supports 
the well -being of about 20% of Fiji's population.15 During the review period, the amount of 
production and export as well as harvested area remained almost unchanged.16 
4.15.   The Ministry of Sugar Industry (MoSI) is responsible for the coordination of activities and 
functions of the varieties of institutions that make up the sugar industry (Table  4.3). 
Table  4.3 Government support to the sugar industry , FY2020/21 -FY2022/23  
(FJD million)  
Item  FY2020/21  FY2021/22  FY2022/23  
Fertilizer subsidy  15.6  15.6  25.3  
Maintenance of cane access roads  1.0  3.0  2.0  
Sugar Cane Development and Farmers Assistance Program  1.2  0.5  1.0  
Top-up cane payment/  
guaranteed cane price  41.2  47.0  8.0  
Cane transfer – Penang to Rarawai  3.0  3.8  5.0  
SIT operating budget  0.5  0.4  0.4  
SRIF operating budget  0.7  0.7  1.1  
SCGC operating budget  0.6  0.6  0.8  
Weedicide subsidy  3.2  0.5  0.6  
New Farmer Assistance  0.3  0.3  0.0 
Mill Mud Cartage  0.2  0.0 0.0 
Total 67.3  72.2  44.2  
Source:  Information provided by the authorities.  
4.16.   In September  2017, the European  Union  terminated the application of country -specific quotas 
for sugar imports from African, Caribbean , and Pacific (ACP) countries. Subsequently, Fiji's share in 
the European  Union 's import of sugar (HS  1701) declined from 6.1% in 2017 to 1.6% in 2021 in 
terms of value.17 Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC), a majority (68%) government -owned enterprise, 
seeks to find alternative markets , including regional and Asian markets , with a view to mitigating 
the impact of more severe export environments.  
 
12 WTO document G/AG/N/FJI/12, 4  March  2016. 
13 WTO document G/AG/N/FJI/13, 9  March  2016. 
14 Investment Fiji, Investment Incentives: Agriculture . Viewed at: 
https://www.investmentfi ji.org.fj/investment -incentives/agriculture .  
15 MoSI, Annual Report (2018 -2019) . Viewed at:  https://www.sugar.gov.fj/wp -
content/uploads/2020/12/2018 -2019AnnualRep ort.pdf .  
16 MoSI, Statistics . Viewed at: https://www.sugar.gov.fj/statistics/ .  
17 WTO Secretariat calculations, based on trade figures from UN Comtrade database. Note that the 
United  Kingdom  was excluded from the European  Union 's import figure from February  2021 onward.  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 56 - 
 
 4.1.2   Fisheries  
4.1.2.1   Main features  
4.17.   Fisheries accounted for 0.9% of GDP in 2021(same in 2016). In terms of exports and 
re-exports in tonnes, fisheries accounted for around 10% of merchandise exports, which consist ed 
mainly of frozen  tuna, and (canned) prepared or pres erved tuna in 2021.  
4.18.   Fisheries in Fiji comprise the following three sectors: coastal fisheries (subsistence and 
commercial); offshore fisheries; and aquaculture.18 Coastal subsistence fisheries, which occur in 
roughly 850 communities, provide foods predomin antly for home use. Significant amounts of fish 
are given to the fishers' relatives and friends. Fishers also sell any valuable species captured if a 
market exists (e.g. lobster to a resort hotel).  
4.19.   The coastal commercial fisheries take place in lagoon, ree f, deep -slope, and nearby open 
ocean waters. The boats used for these fisheries are relatively small (less than nine meters in 
length), and some of the fishing does not use a vessel. Although most of the landings are designated 
for the domestic market, som e high -value species, such as snappers and lobsters, are exported.  
4.20.   Offshore fisheries account for about 90% of Fiji's fishery export s in recent years. They mainly 
involve the use of longline gear targeting a variety of species19, inter alia, tuna (albacore , yellowfin , 
and bigeye). The y are caught for both domestic and overseas markets. The annual catch of offshore 
fisheries by the national longline fishing fleet showed a downward trend between 2017 and 2021. In 
2021, the figure was 10,360 tonnes, recording a 19.0% decrease compared with the previous year 
(12,803 tonnes), and a 42.2% decrease compared with 2017 (17,933 tonnes).20 
4.21.   Pacific Fishing Company Pte Ltd (PAFCO), a state -owned entity, remains the largest fish 
cannery in Fiji.21 The company's core business is loining of tuna for Bumble Bee Foods, a cannery 
based in the United  States . PAFCO signed a seven -year Tuna Loin Processing Agreement in 2002 
with Bumble Bee Foods. The Agreement has been extended three times, with the current extension 
effective in 2017 for a period of 10 years.22 PAFCO aims to expand its operation through more value 
adding, increased canning, expansion of the product range, and possible canning for contracted 
customers.  
4.22.   Aquaculture continues to grow and make an impact on t he lives of the coastal and inland 
communities. The cultured species have expanded over the years.23 The Ministry of Fisheries intends 
to support the sector to stimulate its capacity for significant growth, by helping both large - and 
small -scale production . To this end, the Ministry has plans in place to promote the cultured 
commodities produced to satisfy both domestic and international demands. The Ministry also aims 
to have domestic supplies of 1,000 tonnes of tilapia and 1,000 tonnes of shrimps under th e Fisheries 
Strategic Development Plan 2019 -2029 by, inter alia, developing fit -for-purpose legislation and 
developing joint venture initiatives with the private sector.  
4.23.   On 21  November  2019, the Aquaculture Strategy (as a part of the Ministry of Fisheries 
Strategic Development Plan 2019 -2029) was launched as a strategic development plan for the 
fisheries sector. According to the Strategy, there is capacity for significant growth in the industry 
with supports from the Ministry of Fisheries to stimu late large and small -scale production.  
4.1.2.2   Policy and legal framework  
4.24.   The Ministry of Fisheries is mainly responsible for policy formulation, implementation , and 
management of fisheries. The Offshore Fisheries Management Act (OFMA) 2012 and its subsidiary 
 
18 Ministry of Fisheries, Annual Report 2018 -2019. Viewed at: https://www.parliament.gov.fj/wp -
content/uploads/2021/07/46 -Ministries -of-Fisheries -Fiji-Annual -Report -20182019 .pdf.  
19 Other exports from offshore fisheries are snapper, swordfish, blue marlin, mahi  mahi, and sunfish.  
20 Information provided by the authorities.  
21 The Government owns 99.6% of its shares.  
22 PAFCO, Annual Report 2019 . Viewed at: https://www.parliament.gov.fj/wp -
content/uploads/2022/09/Pacific -Fishing -Company -Pte-Ltd-2019-Annual -Report.pdf .  
23 Cultured speci es include tilapia, carp, freshwater, shrimp, milkfish, seaweed, giant clams, trochus, 
pearl oysters, beche -de-mer, sponges, mud crabs , and corals.  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 57 - 
 
 legislation, the Offshore Fisheries Management Regulations ( OFMR ) 2014, remain the main 
legislation regulating the fisheries sector.24 Both instruments incorporate Fiji's international and 
regional obligations regarding the sustainable management of highly mig ratory fish stock s that pass 
through Fiji fisheries waters.  
4.25.   The OFMA 2012 aims to ensure sustainable management and use of fisheries. It applies to 
fishing and related activities by citizens of Fiji and foreigners. The Act stipulates provisions on, 
inter alia (i) functions of the relevant authorities; (ii)  measures relating to fishery conservations, 
management , and development; (iii)  licence and authorization requirements; (iv)  monitoring, 
controlling, surveillance , and enforcement; (v)  port measures, trans -shipment , and other services ; 
and (vi) jurisdiction and evidence. Strengthened monitoring and surveillance procedures are also 
set out as high penalties and fines for breaches to deter potential offenders.  
4.26.   As for the function of relevant authorities, the Minister of Fisheries is mandated to provide 
general policy guidelines on fisheries matters, and to delegate responsibilities and give directions to 
the Permanent Secretary of Fisheries as legislated under the OFMA  2012.  The Permanent Secretary 
may make allocations for any fishing activity, management plan , or access agreement, and is 
empowered to issue licences and set their conditions. The Director of Fisheries is responsible for 
preparing a Fisheries Management Plan. The OFMA  2012 also established  the Offshore Fisheries 
Advisory Council to advise the Minister on policy matters relating to fisheries conservation, 
management, development, and sustainable use.  
4.27.   The Tuna Development and Management Plan has remained unchanged since Fiji's previous 
Review . It sets sustainable catch limits, an annual cap on the number of licences issued, and licence 
fees to support management of the fishery.  
4.28.   Virtually all offshore tuna fishing is done by longline vessels. Applicants can apply for a tuna 
longline fishing li cence only after they have acquired or constructed a fishing vessel authorized by 
the Permanent Secretary.25 Once the written authorization is issued, applicants must submit a 
proposal together with the relevant documents to complete the licence applicatio n. Only owners of 
vessels that are under exclusive charter arrangements (bareboat charter), where the local charterer 
assumes full control of the operation of the vessel, may apply for a licence to participate in Fiji 
fisheries. A licence or authorization to a vessel may be transferred to another vessel subject to 
certain conditions.26 
4.29.   Every licence or authorization issued by the Permanent Secretary shall be valid for a period 
not exceeding 36 months from the date of issue.27 Nonetheless, the OFMA 2012, whi ch was amended 
and entered into force on 1  August  2021, stipulates that a licence issued to the owner or operator 
of a domestic fishing vessel shall be valid for 20 years provided that the owner or operator applying 
for the licen ce is a Fiji citizen or per son ordinarily resident in Fiji.28 
4.30.   Licences are allocated according to three categories of criteria: mandatory (all matters 
affecting the management of fisheries resources); corporate (all aspects pertaining to the applicant 
companies, aimed at ensuring authenticity of owners); and statutory (monitoring, enforcement , and 
compliance with the laws of Fiji).29 Among the mandatory criteria is the requirement that at least 
50% of the seagoing officers and 50% of the crew must be locals, with this perc entage increasing 
by 12.5% per year for four consecutive years. The local crew requirement may be waived if the 
Department of Fisheries deems it to be a hindrance to production.  
4.31.   Foreign investors interested in practi cing tuna longline fishing in Fiji must apply to 
Investment  Fiji to obtain an approval for their projects pursuant to the Investment Act 2021, before 
they apply for a fishing licence. As shown in Table  2.3, the minimum investment threshold  of 
 
24 The OFMA and the OFMR repealed parts of the Fisheries Act 1942, the Marine Spaces Act 1987, and 
the Marin e Spaces (Foreign Vessels) Regulations 1985.  
25 An applicant shall apply for this authorization in the form set out in Schedule 6P and with the relevant 
fees in Schedule 7 under the 2014 Regulation.   
26 2014 Regulation , Article  25.  
27 OFMA 2012, Article 35. 1. 
28 OFMA 2012, Article 35.1A.  
29 Requirements of each category can be found on the Department of Fisheries website. Viewed at: 
http://www.fisheries.gov.fj/images/Legisl ation/License_requirements.pdf . WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 58 - 
 
 FJD 1,500,000 applies to the fishing activities (excluding fish processing). The Act abolished the 
70% equity cap on foreign shares in fisheries -related businesses.  
4.32.   Exports of fish and other marine products require an export permit from the Ministry of 
Fisheries , and exports of certain specie s are prohibited on conservational and environmental grounds  
(Section  3.2.3) . 
4.33.   As for tuna export s to the European  Union , exporters must compl y with EU fish export 
standards  (Section  3.2.3) .  
4.34.   In 2022, the average tariff rate for fish and fishery products  (WTO definition)  was 14.2%. 
Import tariffs on canned, prepared , or preserved fish decreased from 32% (2015) to 5% (2022), 
except for tuna, mackerel, and shark fins (remained at 32%). Import duty for crustaceans, molluscs , 
and other aquatic invertebrates, pre pared or preserved , decreased from 15% (2015) to 5% (2022). 
The import duty on fresh fish remains at 15%. Import duty rates for shrimps and prawns are also 
high at 32%.  
4.35.   Regarding support schemes to the fisheries industry, the Government provides several ta x 
incentives that apply to newly incorporated entities engaged in a new business in certain areas 
between 1  January  2018 and 31  December  2028.30 Such schemes include income tax exemptions 
whose application periods depend on the amount of invested capital a nd a 90% export income 
reduction (applicable until 31  December  2024). Under the tax -free regime , duty concessions on the 
importation of goods required for the establishment of the business and a five-year extension of 
income tax exemption are available subject to certain conditions.  
4.36.   To combat IUU fishing, Fiji carries out port monitoring activities,  including the boarding and 
inspection of both national and foreign vessels that come to land their catch. In 2018, Fiji ratified 
the Agreement on Port State Measure s (PSMA) , which allows Fiji to identify vessels of interest and 
illegal vessels that may vi sit its ports, and to strengthen the region's ability to exclude illegal vessels 
from visiting vulnerable nations that have small administrations. Fiji is also drafting a National 
Monitoring Compliance Strategy.  
4.37.   Fiji is also a party to several internationa l treaties relating to the management of fisheries. 
Under the Treaty on Fisheries between the Governments of Certain Pacific Island States and the 
Government of the United  States , Fiji is committed to allowing access to US purse seiners licen sed 
pursuant t o this treaty to fish within Fiji's EEZ against the payment of fishing fees and in return for 
technical assistance.31 The authorities state that the United  States  pledged assistance of 
USD 60 million to the Pacific region over the next 10 years, as confirm ed at the announcement of 
Fiji and the United  States  Tuna Treaty Agreement package during the 51st Pacific Islands Forum 
Leaders Meeting held in July  2022. Other conventions and agreements to which Fiji is a party include 
the United Nations Convention on t he Law of the Sea (UNCLOS); the United Nations Fish Stock 
Agreement (UNFSA); the Convention on the Conservation and Management of Highly Migratory Fish 
Stocks in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean (WCPFC); the Convention for the Prohibition of 
Fishing w ith Long Driftnets in the South Pacific; the Niue Treaty on Cooperation in Fisheries 
Surveillance and Law Enforcement in the South Pacific Region ; the Pacific Islands Forum Fishing 
Agency (FFA) ; and the Secretariat to the Pacific Community (SPC) .32  
4.2  Mining  and e nergy  
4.38.   The mining, quarrying, and energy sectors accounted for 3.7% of GDP in 2021, compared 
with 3.4% in 2016.  
 
30 Qualifying areas include "Vanua Levu includ[ing]  Taveuni, Rabi, Kioa and other islands generally 
included for Government administrative purpose in the Northern Division, Rotuma, Kadavu, Levuka, Lomaiviti, 
Lau and Nausori -Lautoka region (from Nausori Airport side of the Rewa River (excluding township bou ndary) to 
the Ba side of the Matawalu River ". Investment Fiji, Investment Incentives: Fisheries , Viewed at: 
https://www.investmentfiji.org.fj/investment -incentives/fisheries .  
31 FAO, FOLEX Database . Viewed at: https://www.fao.org/faolex/results/details/en/c/LEX -FAOC002751/ .  
32 WTO document WT/TPR/S/330/Rev.1, 26  April 2016.  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 59 - 
 
 4.2.1   Energy  
4.2.1.1   Policy and regulatory framework  
4.39.   Fiji's energy sector has been shaped by the demands of its growing economy, natural 
environment, and  tropical climate. While more than half of electricity generated in Fiji is enabled by 
renewable energy resources, it also depends on fossil fuel -powered energy to supplement.  
4.40.   Fiji's main energy policies during the review period are set out in its five -year National Plan 
(2017 -2021).33 Such policies include, inter alia, to (i) secure domestic access to affordable, reliable, 
modern, and sustainable energy services; (ii)  increase share of electricity generation from renewable 
energy resources; (iii)  increase private -sector participation in electricity supply through regulatory 
reforms; (iv)  improve energy efficiency in the electricity sector; (v)  reduce cost of petroleum imports 
and further develop bio -fuels; and (vi) pursue long-term sustainability of renewab le energy 
resources based on the principle of the Green Growth Framework.  
4.41.   The Green Growth Framework aims to provide an opportunity in which all stakeholders  can 
identify the role to play in the pursuit of attaining sustainable development, and "is a tool to 
accelerate integrated and inclusive sustainable development" .34 Energy security is part of Thematic 
Area 7 under the Economic Pillar of the Framework.  
4.42.   At the time of writing, according to the authorities, Fiji was drafting a National Energy Policy 
(NEP 2023-2030) to reflect its recent national regulatory changes and international commitments, 
such as its gradually privatized domestic energy sector as well as its commitment under the Paris 
Agreement. The draft Policy has been submitted to the Cabinet  for endorsement . The authorities 
state that t he draft NEP 2023 -2030 encompasses Fiji 's national commitments to achieve the relevant 
targets under Sustainable Development Goal 7 and has been developed in alignment with Fiji 's 
revised Nationally Determined Contribution (2022) to the Paris Agreement.   
4.43.   A recent census shows that the ratio of domestic access to some form of electricity increased 
from 89% (2007) to 96% (2017).35 Although the National Development Plan aimed to achieve 100% 
access to electricity b y 2021, the goal has been shifted to 2026 due to the COVID -19 pandemic.36 
4.44.   During the review period, the share of electricity generated from renewable energy resources 
(hydropower, wind , and  solar) increased from 54.0% (2016) to 62.6% (2021) of the total 
(Table  4.4).37 This is mainly due to the reduction of fuel imports used for thermal electric generation 
since 2016. The ratio is also shaped by the amount of annual rainfall that in turn affe cts the operation 
of hydropower electricity generation. According to the National Development Plan, the Government 
intends to increase the share of renewable energy sources up to 81% by 2020, and 100% by 2036.  
 
33 Ministry of Economy, 5-Year & 20 -Year National Development Plan: Transforming Fiji . Viewed at: 
https://www.fiji.gov.fj/getattachment/15b0ba03 -825e-47f7-bf69-094ad33004dd/5 -Year-20-Year-NATIONAL -
DEVELOPMENT -PLAN.aspx .  
34 Ministry of Strategic Planning, National Development and Statistics (2014), A Green Growth 
Framework for Fiji . Viewed at: 
https://policy.asiapacificenergy.org/sites/default/files/Green%20Growth%20Framework%20for%20Fiji_16%20
Sept%202014_LowRes%20%284%29.pdf .  
35 Information provided by the authorities.  
36 Information provided by the authorities.  
37 Biomass to  energy is produced by Fiji Sugar Corporation, Tropik Wood Industries Ltd, and Nabou 
Green Energy Ltd. WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 60 - 
 
 Table  4.4 Electricity generation by generator and source, 2016 -21 
 2016  2017  2018  2019  2020  2021  
Total generation (MWh)  934,208  1,007,713  1,032,947  1,061,249  976,372  937,018  
Contribution by generator (%) 
Energy Fiji Ltd 98.9 97.7 96.1 95.4 93.1 93.5 
Independent Power Producers  1.1 2.3 3.9 4.6 6.9 6.5 
Contribution by source (%)  
Hydro  53.65  49.91  57.07  55.25  61.39  62.54  
Thermal  45.96  49.88  42.67  44.41  38.49  37.42  
Wind and solar  0.39 0.21 0.26 0.34 0.12 0.03 
Source:  Energy Fiji Ltd, 2021 Annual Report . Viewed at: 
https://efl.com.fj/wp -content/uploads/2022/08/EFL -2021-Annual -Report -website_cmpress.pdf . 
4.45.   As for the re gulatory bodies, the Department of Energy at the  Ministry of Public Works, 
Transport, and Meteorological Services is responsible for policy formulation and strategic planning, 
and for off -grid rural electrification. The Fijian Competition and Consumer Comm ission (FCCC) 
continues to determine regulatory fees as well as fuel and electricity prices ( Section  3.3.4). 
4.46.   The Fiji Electricity Authority (FEA) was an operator and regulator in the electricity market 
under the Electricity Act 1966. In March  2017, the Government introduced the Electricity Act 2017 
with a view to restructuring the FEA. The 2017 Act subsequently came into force on 
30 September  2019 and repealed the 1966 Act.  
4.47.   Specifically, the Act removes from the FEA the direct responsibility to regulate the electricity 
industry and devolves all of the FEA's regulatory functions and responsibilities to an independent 
regulator.38 Upon entry into force of the Act, the FCCC was appointed as the regulator,39 and has 
been empowered to make regulation s and gran t licen ces, in addition to its existing role in regulating 
energy tariffs. Nonetheless, as described below, the transfer of all regulatory powers to the FCCC 
has not been completed in practice. The Act further stipulates that a succeeding entity of the FEA  is 
given exclusivity in transmission, supply , and retail of electricity in Fiji.40 Energy Fiji Ltd (EFL) 
succeeded the FEA on 16  April 2018 and has retained such exclusive positions ever since. On 
25 March  2021, the Government entered into a Share Sale Ag reement with Sevens Pacific Pte Ltd, 
which is a consortium owned by Chugoku Electric Power Company (CEPCO) and the Japan Bank for 
International Cooperation (JBIC) , to acquire 44% shareholding in EFL (acquiring 24% from the 
Government and 20% from the Fiji National Provident Fund).  
4.48.   On 24  September  2022, the Climate Change Act 2021 entered into force. The Act provides a 
legal basis for the Government to pursue its sustainable development objectives, long -term climate 
ambition, net -zero emission target by 2050 , and commitment to protecting its environment. The Act 
empowers the Minister responsible for climate change to "introduce and implement a carbon pricing 
mechanism, including an emissions trading scheme ".41 With a view to encouraging investment in, 
inter alia, renewable energy and energy efficient infrastructure, t he Minister may also adopt fiscal 
incentives and levies .42  
4.2.1.2   Electricity  
4.49.   During the review period (2016 -22), electricity generation accounted on average for 2% of 
GDP, and Fiji's total power generation averaged 999,585 MWh (Table  4.4). 
4.50.   Under the Electricity Act 2017, the Minister, after consultation with or with the consent of the 
FCCC, may grant a licence authorizing any person to gen erate, transmit , and supply electricity, as 
well as to provide any service deemed to be a subject to a licence.43 EFL remains an exclusive 
 
38 Electricity Act 2017 , Section  4(h). 
39 Electricity Act 2017 , Commencement Notice, 2019.  
40 Electricity Act 2017 , Section  4(a)(b) . 
41 Climate Change Act 2 021, Section  43.2. 
42 Climate Change Act 2021, Section  43.2; and Ministry of Economy , Fiji National Climate Change Policy 
2018-2030. Viewed at: https://www.economy.gov.fj/images/CCIC/uploads/General/FIJI -National -Climate -
Change -Policy -2018-2030-FINAL.pdf .  
43 Electricity Act 2017 , Section  9. The Minister may exempt the prohibition of unlicensed supply under 
certain circumstances under Section  8. WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 61 - 
 
 transmission, distribution , and retail operator of electricity on the four main islands of Fiji (Viti Levu, 
Vanua Lev u, Taveuni, and Ovalau ). In March  2017, a new Electricity Act 2017 was passed by 
Parliament ; it was gazetted on 1  October  2019 and came into effect.  
4.51.   During the review period, EFL underwent a partial privatization through divestment by the 
Government. In Ma rch 2021, the Government entered into an agreement under which a consortium 
of two Japanese companies acquired 44% of shareholdings in EFL.44 As a result, the Government 
retains its position as the majority shareholder (51%), and the remaining share (5%) is owned by 
around 40,000 domestic  shareholders.45 The Government views that deep operational expertise and 
experience in electricity generati on and network s brought by the consortium will enable Fiji to 
accommodate its growing energy demand and meet its renewable energy targets.46 
4.52.   Despite the transfer of regulatory power to the FCCC under the Electricity Act 2017, the EFL 
signed a Memorandum of  Understanding  with the FCCC to continue to carry out certain regulatory 
functions until further notice.47 As an agent of the FCCC, the EFL discharges functions to enforce the 
compliance of the Electricity Act 2017 and its subsidiary regulations.48 The FCCC is responsible for 
controlling the prices and services pertaining to retail supply of electricity. This is done under the 
FCCC (Control of Prices for Retail Supply of Electricity and Ancillary Services) Order 2022 , while the 
EFL provides authorization for the licensing of generation, transmission , and supply of electricity.  
4.53.   As for the generation sector, at the time of writing, there are three Independent Power 
Producers (IPPs) – Tropik Wood Industries Ltd, FSC, and Nabou Green Energy Ltd. Two are 
state‑owned entities: (i) Tropik Wood is a 100% -owned subsidiary of Fiji Pine Ltd, 99.8% of whose 
shares are owned by the Government; and (ii) FSC, 68% of whose shares are owned by the 
Government. These IPPs produce energy based on biomass materials; they convert industrial 
residues such as wood chips and sugar by -product into electricity.  
4.54.   While the EFL generates most of the electricity in Fiji, IPPs continued to supply electricity to 
the national grid, increasing their share of to the generation total fro m 1.1% (2016) to 6.5% (2021) 
(Table  4.1). All IPPs supply electricity to the EFL. The power purchase agreements between the EFL 
and IPPs are confidential; the contents are not made available to the Department of Energy. 
However, the prices for the supply o f electricity from IPPs to the electricity supplier is deregulated. 
This was done in view to encourage IPPs and EFL to invest in renewable energy sources by having 
a commercial negotiation to ensure the security and reliability of power supply and to encou rage fair 
and efficient markets.  
4.55.   The FCCC continues to exercise its regulatory power to determine the retail electricity tariff. 
The latest ministerial order empowers the FCCC to do so until 25  May 2025.49 In October  2019, the 
FCCC authorized the new maxim um electricity tariff rates.50 The new retail rates are applied to 
end-users according to their category as customers.51 The review of the electricity tariff rates will 
be conducted every four years, with the next review scheduled in October  2023. The revi ew also 
takes place on an annual basis to reflect uncontrollable costs, and on an ad hoc  basis to adjust tariffs 
in response to extra ordinary  events. The Government 's electricity subsidy applies to domestic 
customers who have a combined household income of FJD  30,000 or less per annum. The subsidy 
covers the household's first 100  kWh of its monthly electricity bill. The EFL explains that the new 
 
44 Chugoku Electric Power Company Ltd and the JBIC.  
45 Government  of Fiji , Fiji Focus (Issue 8 , Vol. 11). Viewed at: 
https://www.fiji.gov.fj/getattachment/67d4da1c -347e-4283-a666-7254facfc4ec/Fiji -Focus -Issue -8-Volume -12-
June-11,-2021.aspx .  
46 Government  of Fiji  (2021) , "Fiji Welcomes Largest -ever Private Sector Investment from Japan ", 
26 March . Viewed at: https://www.fiji.gov.fj/Media -Centre/News/FIJI -WELCOMES -LARGEST -EVER -PRIVATE -
SECTOR -INVESTME .  
47 EFL, About Us . Viewed at: https://efl.com.fj/about -us/company -information/ .  
48 Such activities include, inter alia, (i) licensing and renewal of electrical wiretapper  and electrical 
contractors ; (ii) electrical incident and accident investigations; (iii)  testing of electricity meters to be used on 
the grid ; and (iv)  inspection and connection of new installation to the EFL grid, as well as inspection of off -grid 
installation. EFL, 2021 Annual Report . Viewed at: https://efl.com.fj/wp -content/uploads/2022/08/EFL -2021-
Annual -Report -website_cmpress.pdf . 
49 Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (Co ntrol of Prices for Retail Supply of Electricity  
and Ancillary Services) Order 2022 . 
50 FCCC, Final Authorization on Electricity Tariff Rates . Viewed at: https://fccc.gov.fj/wp -
content/uploads/2019/09/Final -Authorisation -on-Electricity -Rates_17 -Sept-2019.pdf .  
51 Those categories are domestic customers, commercial customers, and industrial customers.  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 62 - 
 
 tariffs allow it to gen erate a fair return on its investment in the power sector by adopting a 
methodology based on the Regulated Asset Base (RAB) model.52 
4.56.   Regarding policies aimed at increasing energy efficiency, the authorities state that Fiji has 
implemented the Minimum Energ y Performance and Standards Labelling (MEPSL) as of 2012. MEPSL 
is regulated under the Trade Standards (Household Electric Refrigerating Appliances) Order 2007 . 
Currently only household refrigerators and freezers need to comply. Fiji is line to expand the MEPSL 
program me to television sets. This has already been endorsed by the Cabinet , and the legislation is 
expected to be gazetted this year.  
4.57.   Fiji provides tax incentives for investment in the renewable energy sector. Such incentives 
include duty -free impor tation of renewable energy equipment ( e.g. solar, hydro, biomass, biogas, 
wind, geothermal, solar heaters, and solar water pumps) , as well as a five-year tax exemption for 
businesses undertaking a new activity in renewable energy and co -generation  power projects.53 
4.58.   There is no entry restriction on foreign investors in the energy sector. As with other sectors, 
the minimum investment threshold of FJD  300,000 applies. However, the Investment (National 
Security/Interest) Regulation 2022 requi res that investors intending to invest in the energy sector 
submit a proposal to the Minister for an approval to invest. In assessing the proposal, the Minister 
considers its potential impact on national security (Section  2.4). 
4.2.1.3   Hydrocarbons  
4.59.   Hydrocarbons, inter alia, petroleum, remain an important primary energy source in Fiji. The 
Government considers that the reduction of its high reliance on the import of fossil fuels is a key to 
dealing with volatility of fuel prices and safeguarding its foreign reserves . 
4.60.   In 2021, petroleum oils (HS 2710) accounted for 14.9% (USD  316.2  million) of Fiji's total 
import value. Singapore continues to be a main supplier of petroleum oils, representing 97.4% of 
Fiji's total import. At the same time, Fiji re -exported almost 30% of its imported petroleum to other 
Pacific Island  countrie s including Tonga in 2021. On a much smaller scale, Fiji also imports petroleum 
gases including liquified natural gas (LNG) (HS 2711). Its import value was USD  26.2 million in 
2021, and Australia was Fiji's dominant supplier.  
4.61.   As Fiji  continues its effort to reduce the import of fuels, the share of petroleum oils in Fiji's 
total import s showed a consistently downward trend between 2017 and 2021 (Table  A1.4). 
According to the authoriti es, there have not been changes in the market players. The key distributors 
are Total Energies, Pacific Energy Fiji, Mobil Oil Fiji, Fiji Gas , and Blue Gas.  
4.62.   The FCCC continues to control both wholesale and retail prices of petroleum.54 The maximum 
prices a re designated by geographical area (island and distance with public roads) as well as mode 
of transaction (retail or wholesale, bulk sale , or drum sale). The FCCC also controls wholesale and 
retail prices of LNG by purpose of its usage and geographical are a.55 
4.63.   Fiji encourages new investment activity in processing agricultural commodities into bio -fuels 
as an alternative to fossil fuels . Businesses that undertake such projects and employ 20 or more 
local workers every income year may benefit from a tax holiday.56 The length of the tax holiday is 
between 5 and 13 consecutive years, depending on the amount of invested capital. Other incent ives 
include duty -free importation of plant, machinery , and equipment for the initial establishment of a 
factory; duty -free importation of chemical products required for biofuel production ; and duty -free 
importation of all agricultural items with the permi ssion by the Ministry of Agriculture.  
 
52 EFL, 2021 Annual Report . Viewed at: https://efl.com.fj/wp -content/uploads/2022/08/EFL -2021-
Annual -Report -website_cmpress.pdf . 
53 Investment Fiji, Energy . Viewed at: https://www.investmentfiji.org.fj/sector -opportunities/energy .  
54 FCCC, Petroleum . Viewed at: https://fccc.gov.fj/petroleum/ .  
55 FCCC, Gas. Viewed at: https://fccc.gov.fj/gas/ .  
56 Investment Fiji, Energy . Viewed at: https://www.investmentfiji.org.fj/sector -opportunities/ener gy. WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 63 - 
 
 4.64.   An ad valorem  import duty (5%) applies to crude oil, kerosene , and aviation turbine fuel. 
Specific duties apply to imports of gasoline (FJD  0.46/litre), automotive diesel oil (FJD  0.20/litre), 
industrial diesel oil (FJ D 0.20/litre) , and residual fuel oil (FJD  0.12/litre).  
4.3  Manufacturing  
4.3.1   Overview and policy objectives  
4.65.   The m anufacturing sector remains the second -biggest contributor to Fiji's GDP after the 
services sector. During the review period (2016 -21), its share of GDP fluctuated around 14.3%.57 
The manufacturing sector accounted for 25.7% of Fiji's merchandise export in value in 2021. It also 
accounted for 13.9% of the total employment in Fiji, up from 3.5% in 2016 .58 The latest economic 
survey shows that the sector  hired 25,031 local workers in 2019.59 The key manufacturing 
subsectors  include beverages (mostly mineral water), textile s and clothing, wood processing, and 
food processing (mainly meat, sugar , and biscuits).  
4.66.   In its National Development Plan, Fiji states that it aims to develop its manufacturing sector 
with promotion of more value addition and diversification, thereby becoming a manufacturing hub 
in the Pacific Islands region. Fiji plans to take various measure s such as (i)  encouragement of 
investment into  competitive high -value -added industries; (ii)  promotion of foreign investment in 
new industries; (iii)  facilitation of technology transfer through public -private partnerships and joint 
ventures between foreign and local investors ; and (iv)  introduction of technical programmes in 
tertiary and vocational institutions.  
4.67.   Fiji continues to promote import substitution through multiple measures. Fiji has conducted a 
national branding campaign ("Fijian Made – Buy Fijian") since 2011, with a view to pr omoting import 
substitution of items that can be easily produced in Fiji.60 Through this campaign, the Government 
also aims to establish a sense of loyalty among citizens  towards locally manufactured products and 
enhance exports by positioning those produc ts in international markets. In November  2018, Fiji 
added a new brand category named "Fijian Organic " to eight existing categories. 61 The new brand 
may be licen sed to products that are (i)  grown or processed in Fiji ; and (ii)  certified with the Pacific 
Organic Guarantee Scheme standards or any international standard.  The exemption of the annual 
licence and application fee applies to any MSMEs earning FJD  1,250,000 or less annually. As at 
October  2022, 164 registered companies and their 1,237 products have been licen sed under this 
scheme.62 
4.68.   The Government continues to provide financial support to manufacturing operators to 
encourage import substitution. The Reserve Bank of Fiji (RBF)'s Import Substitution and Export 
Finance Facility (ISEFF) was established in 2010 to offer affordable financing (maximum interest of 
5%) to import substitution, exporters, and renewable energy industries, including the manufacturing 
sector. In light of the COVID -19 pandemic, the RBF further reduced the maximum intere st rate on 
the ISEFF facility chargeable by lending institutions to eligible businesses from 5.00% to 3.99% on 
1 June 2021.63 The total allocation currently stands at FJD  500 million  as at March  2023. 
4.69.   There is generally no entry restriction on foreign inve stors in manufacturing sectors. As with 
other sectors, the minimum investment threshold of FJD  300,000 applies (Section  2.4). However, 
Fiji designates the manufacturing of tobacco as a restricted activity under the Investment (Reserved 
and Restricted Activ ities) Regulation 2022. This requires foreign investors to use at least 75% locally 
 
57 Data provided by the authorities. The average is 11.06% between 2016 and 2021.  
58 Data provided by the authorities. This figure shows the ratio of the number of jobs advertised for 
manufacturing sectors to the total number.  
59 Information provided by the authorities.  
60 MCTTT, Fijian Made – Buy Fijian  Brand . Viewed at: https://www.mcttt.gov.fj/division/economic/fijian -
made/ .  
61 Industry Emblem (Forms and Fees) Regulations 2011 , Schedule  3. The o ther eight categories are 
"Fijian Made", "Fijian Product", "Fijian Packed", "Fijian Crafted", "Fijian Grown", "Fijian Assembled", "Fijian 
Designed" , and "Fijian Sewn".  
62 Government  of Fiji , Using the Fijian Made Emblem . Viewed at: https://www.fijianmade.gov.fj/ .  
63 RBF, Import Substitution and Export Finance Facility Guidelines . Viewed at: 
https://www.rbf.gov.fj/wp -content/uploads/2021/08/ISEFF -Guidelines_August -2021.pdf .  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 64 - 
 
 grown and processed tobacco in all domestic cigarette production and meet a higher capital threshold 
(FJD 1 million ). 
4.70.   Fiji's average applied MFN tariff on manufacturing pro ducts (ISIC 3 definition) is 6.2% (7.8% 
taking into account AVEs based on 2020 prices), with tariffs ranging between zero and 32% 
(Section  3.1.4).  
4.3.2   Beverages  
4.71.   Production of beverages, inter alia, bottled mineral water, continues to play an important role 
in Fiji's economy. In 2021, it accounted for 2.4% of its GDP.64 During the review period, mineral 
water remained the largest item of Fiji's commodity export s, and its domestic export value grew by 
46% from FJD  214.4  million  in 2016 to FJD  312.9  million  in 2021.65 In 2021, the majority of Fiji's 
mineral water (HS  2201.10) was exported to the United  States  (USD 88.0 million ), followed by 
Canada (USD  4.7 million ), China (USD  1.9 million ), and the United  Kingdom  (USD 1.8 million).66 In 
the same year, Fiji was t he fifth-largest exporter of mineral water in the world.  
4.72.   The Government considers that the expansion of water exports has given confidence to 
businesses to develop bottling plants, and that Fiji's rich groundwater resources would enable further 
market grow th.67 
4.73.   The Trade Standards (Bottled Water Standards) Order 2004 prescribes compulsory standards 
(including labelling and packaging requirements) applied to bottled water produced, used , or sold in 
Fiji or exported to other countries. Producers who wish to export bottled water must have  a certificate 
issued by the Chief Inspector for Standards, which is to be renewed annually after necessary 
inspection is carried out.68 During the review period, there was no major regulatory change to these 
standard s.69 
4.74.   In Fiji, any business extracting water in its natural state must pay a water resource tax.70 In 
August  2017, the Government amended the Water Resource Tax Act to introduc e new tax rates. 71 
According to the Act's subsidiary regulation, the applicable rates per  litre are FJD  0.01 for those who 
extract less than 10  million  litres per month, and FJD  0.18 for those who extract 10  million  litres or 
more per month.72 The same am endment also strengthened penalties for offences under the Act.  
4.3.3   Textile and clothing industry  
4.75.   The textile and clothing industry remains one of the major manufacturing sectors in Fiji. From 
2016 to 2021, it contributed on average 0.9% to GDP. It currently o ffers 8 ,916 workers employment 
opportunities at multiple locations around the country, especially for women who often otherwise 
would not secure paid employment.73 
4.76.   Owing to its export -oriented development history, the industry remains crucial. During the 
review period, the share of textile s and clothing in Fiji's domestic export averaged 8.2% ( Tables  A1.1 
and A1.2 ). However, its total value of domestic export decreased by 26.5% from USD  51.8 million  
 
64 Data provided by the authorities.  
65 Fiji Bureau of Statistics, Internat ional Merchandise Trade Statistics: Annual 2021 . Viewed at: 
https://www.statsfiji.gov.fj/lat est-releases/trade/international -merchandise -trade/1239 -international -
merchandise -trade -statistics -annual -2021.html .  
66 UN Comtrade.  
67 Investment Fiji, Mining & Groundwater . Viewed at: https://www.investmentfiji.org.fj/sector -
opportunities/mining .  
68 Trade Standards (Bottled Water Standards) Order 2004 , para.  2.  
69 There was one amendment in 2018 regarding the sampling requirement (Trade Standard (Bottled 
Water Standard) (Amendmen t) Order 2018). However, this amendment is just a modification of expressions in 
a table and does not contain any substantive change.  
70 Water Resource Tax Act 2008 , Section  5. 
71 Water Resource Tax (Budget Amendment) Act 2017.  
72 Schedule of Water Resource T ax Regulations 2017.  
73 TCF Council of Fiji, Learn More about Our Home . Viewed at: https://makeitinfiji.com/about -
fiji/#1494279744207 -719ac8ab -b77a.  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 65 - 
 
 (2016) to USD  38.1 million  (2021). COVID -19 lockdowns and a decrease in textile/clothing materials 
due to supply chain disruptions may explain the decline in export s. 
4.77.   Regarding clothing that is the main export item, Australia remains the most important export 
destination, accounting for 61.2% (2021)  in value.74 This strong export continues to be suppo rted 
by Australia's Developing Country Preferences that allow duty -free import of Fijian garments under 
certain conditions. Fiji's other exporting partners include New  Zealand  (18.4%) and Samoa (3.9%).  
4.78.   Import tariffs on textiles and clothing have decreased significantly since the last Review due 
to the increased number of dut y-free items entering Fiji . The average applied MFN tariff on textiles 
is 2.6% and 8.5% on clothing (with tariffs ranging from zero to 32%).  
4.3.4   Wood processing  
4.79.   Wood processing (mainly sawmilling and planing ) contributed on average 0.7% to GDP 
between 2016 and 2021.75 In 2019, there were at least 16 private limited companies in this sector, 
providing employment for 1,121 workers.76 The sec tor has become more important for Fiji's 
commodity export s: its share of total domestic export s almost doubled from 5.4% (2016) to 10.6% 
(2021) ( Tables  A1.1 and A1.2 ).77 Wood in chips and particles (HS  4401.22) is by far the most 
exported item. In 2021, Fi ji's exporting partners of those products were China (USD  23.2 million ) 
and Japan (USD  12.9 million ). 
4.80.   Tropik Wood Industries Ltd owns and operates Fiji 's largest sawmill and wood chip mill for 
exports.78 It is a 100% -owned subsidiary of Fiji Pine Ltd, which is a government -controlled entity.79 
4.81.   Fiji designates ''logging" as a restricted activity under the Investment Act 2021. Foreign 
investors who wish to operate logging must undertake value -adding activities and satisf y the higher 
investment threshold ( FJD 500,000 ) than the cross-sectoral threshold ( FJD 300,000 ) (Section  2.4). 
4.4  Services  
4.4.1   Financial services  
4.4.1.1   Overview  
4.82.   The financial sector accounted for 9.1% of GDP in 2021 up from 7.2% in 2016. Its structure 
features a significant predominance of banks over other types of financial institutions. The stock 
market is relatively small. Fiji's financial sector comprises both regulated and non -regulated (mainly 
the Fijian Development Bank and the Housing Authority) financial services providers. The RBF is the 
primary regulator for financial institutions, which include commercial banks, a development bank, 
credit institutions, the superannuation fund, insurance companies, brokers and agents, capital 
markets, foreign exchange dealers and money changers, payment service providers, payment 
system operators, non -bank financial institutions , and a credit information reporting agency 
(Table  4.5). 
Table  4.5 Licen sed financial entities including branches/agencies, 2016 -June  2021 
(Number)  
 2016  2017  2018  June  
2019 Dec. 
2019  June  
2020 Dec. 
2020  June  
2021  
Commercial banks  6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 
Branches  70 69 68 67 65 65 62 62 
Agencies and agent banking  95 119 126 128 126 130 133 134 
ATMs 326 325 338 336 339 339 337 320 
Electronic funds transfer at point of 
sale ( EFTPOS ) 6,081  5,872  6,137  5,735  5,841  5,817  6,005  6,380 
 
74 WTO Secretariat calculation based on UN Comtrade  data. The figure is calculated based on Fiji's 
export products under Chapter s 61-63 of the HS Code.  
75 Data provided by the authorities.  
76 Fiji Bureau of Statistics, Economic Survey: Manufacturing 2019 .  
77 This figure is based on Fiji's export products under Section  9 (Chapter 44 and 45) of HS code.  
78 Tropik Wood Industries Ltd , About Us . Viewed at: https://www.tropik.com.fj/about -us/.  
79 The Government owns 99.8% of Fiji Pine  Ltd. WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 66 - 
 
  2016  2017  2018  June  
2019 Dec. 
2019  June  
2020 Dec. 
2020  June  
2021  
Credit institutions  4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 
Branches  17 17 18 19 20 20 19 19 
Agencies  0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 
Life insurance companies  2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 
General insurance companies  7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 
Insurance brokers  4 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 
Insurance agentsa 526 537 464 514 528 574 581 542 
Foreign exchange dealers  9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 
Money changers  2 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 
Securities exchange  1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 
investment schemes (MIS)  2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 
Property trusts  0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 
Investment advisers  12 12 12 11 10 10 10 10 
Stock brokers  3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 
Dealers  3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 
MIS representatives  16 14 15 12 17 17 15 21 
Stock broker/dealer representatives  13 10 13 11 13 12 13 12 
Investment adviser representatives  20 22 22 21 21 19 20 20 
Credit reporting agency  .. .. 1 1 1 1 1 1 
Credit information provider and credit 
information recipient  .. .. .. 4 6 5 2 0 
.. Not available.  
a An agent may hold more than one licence to sell various classes of insurance in a calendar year.  
Source:  RBF. Viewed at: https://www.rbf.gov.fj/category/annual -report/ . 
4.83.   The assets of the Fijian financial system grew steadily during the review period, from 
FJD 17.4 billion in 2016 to FJD  24.2 billion  in June  2021. Nearly all subsectors contributed to this 
growth, except for the capital markets that contracted in 2020, due to a decrease of the stock market 
capitalization and managed investment schemes  (MIS)  funds (Table  4.6). A contraction was noted 
between July  2020 and December  2021, on account of tightened credit conditions amid the economic 
uncertainty and contraction brought on by the COVID pandemic. Commercial banks remain the 
biggest component of Fiji's finance sector, representing, on average 51 % of the sector's total assets 
during 2016 –20, while the Government -owned Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF) (superannuation) 
represents the second largest share, averaging some 34% of total  assets. Insurance -related 
companies and credit institutions have  the smallest share of the sector.  
Table  4.6 Gross assets of the financial system, 2016 -June  2021 
(FJD million ) 
 2016  2017  2018  June  
2019 Dec. 
2019  June  
2020 Dec. 
2020  June  
2021  
Regulated financial entities    
Commercial banks  8,990  9,988  10,034  10,231  10,594  10,646  10,669  11,607  
Credit institutions  443 558 694 724 785 825 802 820 
Insurance companies  1,569  1,658  1,744  1,765  1,875  1,914  2,052  2,080  
FNPF 5,496  6,139  7,037  7,450  7,902  8,142  8,127  8,303  
Insurance brokers  49 52 61 61 60 80 64 64 
Capital marketsa 236 279 368 388 439 383 393 400 
Non-regulated financial entities    
Non-bank financial 
institutionsb 664 727 801 847 863 869 961 977 
a Includes MIS, the South Pacific Stock Exchange ( SPX), and stock brokers.  
b Includes Fiji Development Bank (FDB) and Housing Authority of Fiji (HA).  
Source:  RBF. Viewed at: https://www.rbf.gov.fj/category/annual -report/ . 
4.84.   Assets h ave grown hand in hand with the expansion of credit to private sector, mainly due to 
relative ly low lending rates , although  the authorities indicate that the expansion in commercial bank 
assets in 2020 and 2021 was driven by higher liquidity held by banks in line with higher foreign 
reserves inflows, which  would have supported the low-rate environment.  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 67 - 
 
 4.85.   Under the RBF Act (1983), the RBF (Amendment) Decree 2009, and industry -specific 
legislation80, the RBF is responsible for the regulation and supervision of the Fijian financial system 
in line with its mission of promoting an internationally reputable financial system. This involves the 
issuance of licences, the development of prudential supervision policy requirements, the review of 
relevant laws, and the iss uance of regulations and guidance . The RBF  fulfils its supervisory 
responsibilities through offsite review and onsite examinations. The RBF is also the Registrar of Fiji's 
movable collateral registry, pursuant to the Fiji Personal Property Securities Act 2 017. 
4.86.   Foreign companies are allowed to participate in financial activities under the same conditions 
as their Fijian counterparts. In the context of its macroprudential surveillance responsibilities, the 
RBF undertakes stress tests on licensed banks, credit institutions , and the FNPF, based on plausible 
scenarios. The latest stress test was conducted in December  2022. 
4.4.1.2   Developments in the financial sector  
4.87.   The authorities ' goal on financial services aims at strengthening the Fijian economy through 
the de epening of the financial sector to contribute to inclusive and sustainable economic growth in 
Fiji.81 Their actions in the sector are guided by the 2016 -2025 Financial Sector Development Plan, 
which recommends, among other things, the development of an exp ort/import bank to support 
expansion in trade . However, the authorities note that there have been no development on this front 
and no related work has been planned . 
4.88.   There are ongoing efforts to broaden and deepen financial inclusion, starting with the crea tion 
of the National Financial Inclusion Taskforce (NFIT) in 2010 to lead, coordinate, facilitate, and 
monitor financial inclusion initiatives in Fiji. The  current actions of the NFIT are guided through the 
National Financial Inclusion Strategy (NFIS) 2022 –2030, which builds on two previous NFIS; the 
first from 2010 -14 and the second from 2016 -20. The first two strategies were designed to address 
financial exclusion by expanding account ownership and account use, increasing the range and 
enhancing the quali ty of financial services and products, supporting innovation through the creation 
of an enabling regulatory environment, continuing financial literacy programmes, and promoting the 
development of the MSME  sector.  
4.89.   The current NFIS supports Fiji's National Development Plan (2017 -2036) and is aligned to the 
achievement of a number of UN Sustainable Development Goals, including ending poverty in all of 
its forms and achieving gender equality and empowering women. Its eventual goal is to help citizens  
build livelihoods and businesses that are sustainable and resilient to economic shocks. According to 
the RBF, financial inclusion in Fiji has recorded significant improvement in recent years. As of 2020, 
81% of the adult population (50% women) had access t o formal financial services, compared to 
64% in 2014 (44% women).82 Fiji's 2020 Demand Side Survey revealed that 15% of Fiji's population 
had some form of insurance, up from 12% in  2014. 
4.90.   Digital transformation is also increasingly becoming a key aspect of financial business 
operations in Fiji, with the increase of online activities. As such, the RBF is cognizant of the necessity 
to develop a cyber risk mitigation framework. In February  2022, it adopted the Prudential 
Supervision Policy Statement on Minimum Requirements for Cybersecurity of Supervised Entities, 
with a full implementation at end -March  2023. 
4.4.1.3   Recent developments in the banking industry  
4.91.   During the review period, the legislative framework of the banking industry did not change 
substantially. The RBF's bank licensing requirements do not differentiate between domestic and 
foreign banks. Foreign banks may operate in Fiji as branches or subsidiaries or by acquiring a 
domestic bank. There are no restrictions on foreign ownership of e quity shares. The banking system 
is dominated by foreign -owned banks. The six licensed financial institutions are authorized under 
the Banking Act to take deposits from the public. In the banking industry, there are branches of two 
 
80 Banking Act (1995), Insurance Act (1998), Insurance (Amendment) Act (2003), Exchange Control Act 
(Rev. 1985 ), Companies (Securities Exchanges and Licensing) Reg ulations 2009, Reserve Bank of Fiji (Capital 
Markets and Securities Industry) Regulations 2015, FNPF Act (2011), Fair Reporting of Credit Act 2016, 
National Payment System Act 2021 , and Companies Act (2015).  
81 Fiji Financial Sector Development Plan.  
82 Fiji National Financial Inclusion Strategy 2022 -2030.  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 68 - 
 
 Australian banks, an Ind ian bank, and a Papua New Guinea bank; in addition, there is one subsidiary 
of a French bank.83 One bank is locally owned.  
4.92.   There are three other credit institutions, holding a restricted licence, which forbids them from 
operating checking accounts, offerin g demand deposits , and doing foreign exchange business. They 
tend to offer specialized services, focusing on asset finance ; however , they also offer personal loans. 
Only commercial banks and credit institutions are allowed to accept deposits from the publi c. There 
are no restrictions on the type of products offered by commercial banks incorporated in Fiji to 
residents in Fiji. Lending offshore is prohibited unless RBF's approval is obtained. The provision of 
cross-border banking services to residents in Fij i also requires approval from the RBF.  
4.93.   A number of credit unions and savings and loans cooperatives continue to be supervised by 
the Registrar of Credit Unions and the Department of Cooperatives, respectively. However, the 
authorities indicate that credit union legislation is being proposed, which seeks to include the 
regulatory and supervisory oversight of financial cooperatives under the formal supervisory ambit of 
the Central Bank.  During the review period, an agreement was reached between the RBF and th e 
Department of Cooperatives indicating that, once the new Credit Union law comes into force,  all 
financial cooperatives with deposit balances above FJD  2 million  would be supervised by the RBF.  
4.94.   As was the case during the previous review, all banks, includ ing foreign branches, must have 
a minimum capital of FJD  2 million  and a minimum risk weighted capital (Tier I and Tier II) adequacy 
ratio of 12%, while credit institutions are required to maintain a minimum capital adequacy ratio of 
15%. Banks are also subject to minimum information disclosure requirements.  
4.95.   According to  the RBF, banking is the dominant channel of funding, as it accounted for 71.3% 
of the financial system aggregate credit in June  2021, down from 79% in 2016 , and it is largely 
concentrated in the wholesale, retail, hotels, real estate , and building and con struction industries.84 
4.96.   The quality of lending was generally stable until 2019, with the non -performing  loan (NPL) 
ratio consistently below 5%. However, according to the IMF, despite the loan repayment holiday 
implemented during the COVID -19 crisis, NPLs h ave risen to a record high of 7.5% as of June  2021, 
as a consequence of the pandemic and the recent contraction of economic activities. The situation 
took banks to make significant provisions to withstand credit risk shocks, and the capital adequacy 
of the  banking sector has strengthened to 20.8% (up from 15.3% in 2016), well above the prudential 
minimum of 12%.85 The authorities indicate that the amount of provisions increased from 
FJD 55.6 million  in 2016 to FJD  164.1  million  in 2021, but their coverage of classified exposures 
decreased from 79.5%  to 30.4%.  
4.97.   The 2021 Financial Stability Review conducted by the RBF also highlighted that NPLs have 
increased markedly in 2021 for commercial banks and licensed credit institutions, a s more borrowers 
have been unable to service their debt obligations. As a consequence, banks have increased their 
provision; this , however , has had a negative impact on the industry's earnings (Table  4.7).86 
Table  4.7 Summary of commercial banks' profitability, 2016 -June  2021  
(FJD million ) 
 2016  2017  2018  June  
2019 Dec. 
2019a June  
2020b Dec. 2020  June  
2021  
Interest income  360.0  386.9  413.4  219.2  462.9  235.6  461.9  215.7  
Interest expense  101.1  130.4  140.1  82.3 177.6  82.9 149.5  57.1 
Net interest 
income  258.9  256.5  273.3  136.9  285.3  152.7  312.4  158.6  
Add: non -interest 
income  204.9  231.3  239.1  119.7  249.2  97.2 188.4  77.2 
 
83 The IMF considers that the stability of the banking system is fostered by the dominance of large 
foreign banks that operate as branches and have access to th eir parent banks for capital and liquidity.  
84 RBF, Financial Stability Report 2021 . Viewed at: https://www.rbf.gov.fj/financial -stability -review -
2021/ . 
85 IMF (2021) , Republic of Fij i: Staff Report for the Article  IV Consultation . Viewed at: 
https://www.imf.org/en/Countries/FJI# . 
86 RBF (2021) , Financial Stability Review . Viewed at: https://www.rbf.gov.fj/category/financial -stability -
review/ . WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 69 - 
 
  2016  2017  2018  June  
2019 Dec. 
2019a June  
2020b Dec. 2020  June  
2021  
Income from 
overseas exchange 
transactions  80.5 84.0 92.9 46.8 96.5 35.1 62.2 25.4 
Commission  14.0 14.5 17.2 8.8 17.6 7.6 16.0 7.0 
Fee charges  83.1 85.2 90.2 42.0 86.2 32.3 62 27.8 
Other income  27.3 47.6 38.8 22.0 48.9 22.2 48.1 17.0 
Total operating 
income  463.8  487.8  512.4  256.6  534.5  249.9  500.8  235.8  
Less: operating 
income  237.0  245.6  257.2  122.8  254.1  133.0  272.0  128.3  
Less: bad debts and 
provisions  22.0 24.8 4.9 14.6 21.1 69.8 121.9  29.2 
Profit before -tax 
and extraordinary 
items  204.8  217.4  250.3  119.2  259.3  47.1 106.9  78.3 
Less: tax  44.2 46.4 47.0 27.0 52.6 11.4 17.9 17.0 
Net profit 
after -tax 160.6  171.0  203.3  92.1 206.7  35.7 89.0 61.3 
Add/less: 
extraordinary items  0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 
Net profit 
after -tax and 
extraordinary 
items  160.6  171.0  203.3  92.1 206.7  35.7 89.0 61.4 
Average assets  8,446.7  9,148.4  9,569.0  9,741.5  10,156.2  10,208.8  10,266.7  10,610.9  
After-tax return on 
equity (%)  18.4 17.7 19.2 14.9 15.8 5.3 6.4 8.3 
Efficiency (%)  51.1 50.3 50.2 47.9 47.5 53.2 54.3 54.4 
Yield on earning 
assets (%)  4.8 4.8 4.9 2.5 5.2 2.6 5.1 2.3 
Cost of funding 
liabilities (%)  1.3 1.6 1.7 1.0 2.0 1.0 1.7 0.6 
a Calendar year profits for all commercial banks used.  
b Six-month profits for all commercial banks used.  
Source:  RBF. 
4.98.   Fiji's first credit information reporting agency (CIRA) was licensed by the RBF in 2018, under 
the 2016 Fair Reporting of Credit Act and its implementation regulations, which entrust the RBF with 
the responsibility of licensing and supervising credit reporting agencies. The Act also empowers it to 
regist er credit information provider s and credit report recipients in Fiji. Ten credit information 
providers and credit report recipient s are currently in operation. The authorities see CIRA's entry 
into operation as a way to reduce information asymmetry between  lenders and prospective 
borrowers. They indicate that CIRA is yet to be fully operational, as licensed banks and credit 
institutions are slowly moving towards uploading their credit information due to the consent issues. 
The Fair Reporting of Credit (Amen dment) Act 2021 came into effect on 1  August  2021. The main 
objective of the amendment was to provide clarity on the imposition of fines and penalties under the 
Act. 
4.99.   Other policy statements adopted during the review period to further ensure the stability o f 
Fiji's banking system  include the Banking Supervision Policy Statement No.  4 – Minimum 
Requirements for the Management of Foreign Exchange Risk for Licensed Commercial Banks 
(Revised 2016)  and the Prudential Supervision Policy Statement No.  1 – Minimum Requirements for 
Corporate Governance of Licensed Entities (Revised 2019).  
4.100.   In April 2023, there was an ongoing review of the Banking Supervision Policy Statement 
No. 3 on Guidelines for Loan Classification and Provisioning for Impaired Assets and the revised 
Banking Supervision Policy Statement No.  9 A and 9B on Liquidity Risk Manag ement Requirements 
for Banks and Credit Institutions . According to the authorities, the key reason for these reviews is 
to ensure that the RBF's prudential supervision policies capture the Basel Committee Principles and 
best international practices to assi st banks and credit institutions to mitigate major risks.  
4.4.1.4   Recent developments in the insurance industry  
4.101.   In 2021, life insurance represented 48.7% of the industry 's gross premiums, while 
non-life/general insurance represented 51.3%.  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 70 - 
 
 4.102.   Foreign presence is significant in Fiji's insurance business. As at the time of the previous 
Review, of the seven general insurers, two are domestically owned, four are locally incorporated 
subsidiaries of foreign parent companies (two from Australia, one from New  Zealand , and one from 
Papua New Guinea), and one is a branch from an Indian insurance company. Only two life insurers 
operate: one is a Fijian -incorporated subsidiary of a Papua New Guinea company, and the other is a 
branch of an Indian insurer. There are five insura nce brokers, of which only two are fully domestically 
owned.  
4.103.   The insurance industry is regulated by the RBF through various laws and regulations, mainly 
the Insurance Act 1998, the Insurance Regulations 1998, and the RBF (Amendment) Decree 2009, 
with the a im of ensuring the financial soundness of the industry and individual entities and protecting 
policyholders.  
4.104.   By law, all industry participants , i.e. insurers, and insurance brokers and agents, have to be 
licensed by the RBF. Licences are valid for 12 month s and subject to yearly renewals upon payment 
of FJD  15,000. Licensing requirements do not distinguish between local and foreign companies , and 
there is no limitation with respect to foreign ownership in the insurance companies. New applicants 
must provide economic justification for their entrance into the market and meet other prescribed 
criteria.  
4.105.   A licensed insurance company may only conduc t the type of insurance business (life or 
general) for which it has obtained a licence. An insurer can , however , provide both types of business 
if it obtains a separate licence for each service through two separate companies. Insurance 
companies licensed t o carry out any class of insurance business are not allowed to also engage in 
banking and other financial services. Insurers are free to set insurance premiums and do not need 
regulatory approval to do so. Under the Insurance Act 1998, the RBF may issue a licence to conduct 
insurance business to a company incorporated in Fiji or a company incorporated abroad that is 
registered under Fiji's Companies Act, provided that it satisfies all the prescribed criteria. An 
applicant must meet the solvency requirements . The Insurance Act 1998 prescribes the minimum 
solvency requirements for licensed insurers in Fiji. In addition, the RBF has implemented Insurance 
Supervision Policy Statement (ISPS) No.  3A (for life insurers) and ISPS No.  3B (for general insurers) , 
which  details requirements for the calculations of the solvency position of an insurer.  Additionally, a 
revised ISPS No. 10 on Minimum Requirements for the Role of Insurance Actuaries for Licensed 
Insurers was issued in June  2022 and came into effect in Septemb er 2022. 
4.106.   According to the authorities, Third Party Insurance and Workmen Compensation (including 
School Accidents) is the only compulsory insurances in Fiji.  This is administered by the Accident 
Compensation Commission Fiji under the Accident Compensation Act 2017.  
4.107.   The reinsurance system remained unchanged during the review period. Insurers are required 
to always have in place reinsurance arrangements for risks insured in conducting their business in 
Fiji. There are no reinsurance companies est ablished in Fiji; all locally registered insurance 
companies must obtain reinsurance from overseas. No restrictions apply on contracting reinsurance 
policies abroad, provided the requirements of the RBF are met. Parent companies incorporated 
overseas norma lly make sure that the reinsurance policies of their subsidiaries in Fiji comply with 
the RBF's requirements .87 
4.108.   Data released from the RBF in June  2021 indicated that the Fijian insurance industry 
recorded a positive performance, despite the negative impac t of the COVID -19 pandemic, as the 
combined total assets of the industry grew from FJD  1.9 billion  in 2020 to FJD  2.1 billion .88 The 
industry also recorded strong solvency surpluses, consolidating its compliance with the mandated 
solvency requirements.  
4.109.   Several legislative revisions were taking place in the insurance industry during the review 
period. For example, the RBF 2020 -2021 annual report indicates that a review of the Insurance Act 
1998 was being undertaken to incorporate new changes and initiatives within the domestic insurance 
industry and its business environment, to accommodate the rising demand for insurance coverage . 
 
87 Insurance Act 1998 , Section  39; and Insurance Supervision Policy Statement No.  6. 
88 RBF (2021) , Annual Report : Augus t 2020-July 2021. Viewed at: 
https://www.rbf.gov.fj/category/annual -report/ . WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 71 - 
 
 4.4.1.5   Recent developments in the capital markets industry  
4.110.   Fiji has a small capital market, which includes an equity market, a unit trust market, and a 
bond market. The bond market, which is mostly composed of government debt instruments, is the 
largest component of Fiji's capital market (Table  4.8) followed by the equity market and the unit 
trust market. Fiji's South Pacific Stock  Exchange (SPX) has 19 listed companies and the volume and 
value of shares traded on the SPX decreased in 2021. Due to price uncertainty in the wake of 
COVID -19 pandemic, the market capitalization of listed securities decreased from FJD  3.4 billion  in 
2020 to FJD 3.3 billion  as at 30  June 2021. The industries of companies listed include insurance, 
manufacturing, wholesale, retail, forestry, telecommunications and media, automotive, investment, 
and banking.  
Table  4.8 Composition of the capital markets, 2017 -21 
(FJD million ) 
 2017  2018  2019  June  2020 Dec. 2020  June  2021 
Equities marketa 1,797  3,070  4,119  3,405  3,469  3,273  
Managed investment schemesb 271 353 422 368 376 387 
Bonds marketc 3,636  4,014  4,289  4,915  5,032  5,155  
a Based on the market capitalization of the listed companies.  
b Based on the funds under management.  
c Based on outstanding bonds.  
Source:  RBF. 
4.111.   As of April  2023, work was  ongoing to review the minimum requirements for capital raising 
through the issue of equity and debt securities, to ensure alignment with the Companies Act 2015 
and to keep abreast with international best practices . In addition, drafting of a risk manageme nt 
policy for the capital markets intermediaries is under development. In January  2021, the Companies 
(Wholesale Corporate Bonds) Regulations 2021 became effective. It was part of the actions that 
were undertaken to enable the development of Fiji 's wholesa le corporate bonds market within the 
existing legislative and regulatory frameworks. The RBF also granted approval to SPX Trustee Ltd in 
August  2021 to undertake the function of a trustee for bond issuances that will be made under the 
Regulations.  
4.4.2   Telecommunications  
4.112.   Fiji's legislative and institutional framework for telecommunications has remained broadly 
unchanged since the previous Review. The Telecommunications Act 2008 (last amended in 2020) 
and its subsidiary legislation89 continue  to provide a general regulatory framework for the sector. 
Under the Act, the Minister in charge of telecommunications has the functions to formulate and 
monitor telecommunication s policies . The Act also establishes the Telecommunications Authority of 
Fiji (TAF) that acts as a regulatory and implementing body in the sector. The TAF is also in charge 
of, inter alia, making determinations under the 2008 Act; promoting investors' confidence in Fiji's 
telecommunications sector; grant ing, suspend ing, vary ing, or revok ing licences; and protect ing 
consumers' interests in the sector.  
4.113.   Every telecommunication s service provider must hold a licence issued by the TAF, in 
accordance with rules set by the Telecommunications (Licensing) Regulations 2012. According to 
the authorities, the current licensing regime is technologically neutral.  During the review period, 
there was no regulatory change to the regime. Operato rs are granted 15 -year unified licences 
allowing them to provide any telecom service. In addition to telecommunications licences, the TAF 
also issues import permits , aeronautical service licences , maritime station licences , equipment type 
 
89 Telecommunications (Licensing) Regulations 2012, Telecommunications (Trust Fund) Regulations 
2016, Telecommunic ations (Fibre Cable Management Trust Fund) Regulations 2019, Telecommunications 
(Interconnection Levy) Regulations 2016, and Telecommunications (Declaration of Universal Service Areas) 
Order 2013 . WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 72 - 
 
 approvals , and am ateur radio licences.90 Residents of Fiji, firms incorporated under the 
Companies  Act, and Fijian government agencies or statutory bodies may apply for all licences.91 
4.114.   In principle, Fiji's telecommunication s market has no entry restriction on foreign inves tors. 
However, the ITU's ICT Regulatory Tracker indicates that Fiji maintains loose or full control on foreign 
participation for value added service providers, Internet service providers , and international service 
providers.92 In addition to general condit ions attached to all the licence applications,  the TAF may 
apply special conditions in respect of a particular licence.  
4.115.   Businesses must obtain an import permit from the TAF when they intend to import any 
telecommunications equipment or apparatus other than  equipment exempted by regulations.93 The 
authorities indicate that the standards against which the TAF assesses conformity of 
telecommunications equipment are usually aligned with those of Australia and New  Zealand . The 
TAF may enter into mutual recognition agreements with authorities in its trading partners to provide 
for mutual recognition of type approvals conducted in the other country or in Fiji. However, no such 
agreement is currently in force in Fiji.  
4.116.   During the review period, Fiji's penetr ation rate of telecommunication s services continued to 
grow steadily (Table  4.9). In particular, mobile -broadband services expanded significantly, with its 
mobile -broadband subscriptions per 100 population increasing from 55.9 (2016) to 150.6 (2021). 
This is largely attributed to more affordable mobile and Internet services enabled by the liberalization 
of the telecommunications sector.  
Table  4.9 Telecommunication s indicators, 2016 -21 
 2016  2017  2018  2019  2020  2021  
Fixed -telephone subscriptions per 
100 population  8.5 8.7 8.7 18.3 18.1 20.0 
Mobile -cellular subscriptions per 
100 population  119.8  117.8  117.8  138.5  135.0  137.5  
Fixed (wired) -broadband 
subscriptions per 100  1.4 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.8 2.0 
Mobile -broadband subscriptions 
per 100 population  55.9 133.7  147.5  147.5  149.2  150.6  
Households with a computer (%)  41.7 44.6 44.6 n.a. n.a. n.a. 
Households with Internet access 
at home (%)  33.6 35.9 35.9 n.a. n.a. n.a. 
Population using the Internet (%)  46.5 50.0 50.0 n.a. n.a. n.a. 
n.a. Not applicable.  
Note:  Data between  2019 and 2021 represent the figures between October and December of the 
respective year.  
 The TAF started to provide quarterly data from 2018. The current figures in 2018 are cited from the 
ITU database . 
Source:  ITU ICT -Eye. Viewed at: https://www.itu.int/net4/itu -d/icteye#/ ; and TAF, Telecom Indicators . 
Viewed at: https://taf.org.fj/telecom -indicators/ . 
4.117.   Fiji operates six international submarine cables, of which three were installed during the 
review period. The Tui -Samoa submarine cable, which connects Fiji and Samoa, went into service in 
February  2018.94 The Southern Cross NEXT cable, installed by Bermuda -based Southern Cross Cable 
Network Ltd, came into operation in July  2022.95 The 15,840 -kilometer cable enabled Fiji to  further 
improve its existing connectivity to Australia, New  Zealand , and the United  States , as well as its 
 
90 TAF, Telecommunications Licensing Procedure . Viewed at: https://taf.org.fj/telecommunications -
license/ .  
91 Telecommunications (Licensing) Regulations 2012 , Regulation 6 . 
92 ICT Regulatory Tracker. Viewed at: https://app.gen5.digital/tracker/country -cards/Fiji . 
93 Telecommunication s Act 2008 , Article  55.4. 
94 Government of Samoa  (2020) , "Samoa Submarine Cable Company Declares $1,923,600 Dividend for 
Financial Year 2019" , 28 May. Viewed at: https://www.samoagovt.ws/2020/05/samoa -submarine -cable-
company -declares -1923600 -dividend -for-financial -year-2019/ . The cable was built by a then privately owned 
Samoa Submarine Cable Company . 
95 Southern Cross Cables  Network (2022) , "SX NEXT Launches ", 7 July. Viewed at: 
https://www.southerncrosscables.com/Home/Company/SXPress/sx -next-launches .  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 73 - 
 
 neighbouring Pacific Island countries. The Gondwana -2 cable, which was tendered by France -based 
Alcatel Submarine Networks (a subsidiary of Nokia), links Fiji and New Caledonia (France).96 The 
cable was completed and came into operation on 20  August  2022. 
4.118.   State participation remains important in Fiji's domestic telecommunication s market, with a 
dominant position held by Amalgamated Telecom Holdings Lt d (ATH) in both fixed and mobile phone 
segments.97 The FNPF holds 72.71% of ATH 's shares. The remaining shares belong to the 
Government (15.25%) and individual shareholders.  
4.119.   Within the fixed -line market, Telecom Fiji Ltd (TFL), 100% owned by ATH, is the major 
fixed-telephone market operator. TFL is the sole owner of the fixed -line infr astructure. FINTEL, also 
a 100% subsidiary of ATH, is the leading provider  of international telecommunications (voice and 
data transmission) into and out of Fiji.  
4.120.   With regard to the mobile -telephone segment, Vodafone Fiji (of which 51% is owned by ATH 
and 49% by the FNPF ) remains the dominant player, accounting for 81% of the market share.98 
Digicel, which was acquired in July  2022 by Australia's Telstra, and TFL are the other 
mobile -telephone service providers. Inkk Mobile is Fiji's only mobile virtual network operator.  
4.121.   There are three Internet service providers: Connect  (a fully  owned subsidiary of TFL ), 
Digicel , and Vodafone.  
4.122.   The FCCC is responsible for monitoring unfair trade practices, and controlling wholesale 
prices or rates of the supply o f interconnection services, pursuant to the Fijian Competition and 
Consumer Commission Act 2010.99 The latest Ministerial Order, which came into force on 
22 November  2021, provides that the price control remains effective until 22  November  2024, 
unless it is varied, extended , or revoked.100 
4.123.   By law, Fiji maintains a universal service scheme, whose ultimate objective is to provide all 
citizens , wherever they reside or carry  on business, with reasonable access to telecommunication s 
services on an equitable and affordable basis.101 The scheme is administered by the TAF and funded 
through the Universal Service Fund . 
4.124.   Telecommunications (Fibre Cable Management Trust Fund) Regulations 2019 came into 
effect on 23  August  2019. The regulatio ns established a new fund dedicated to funding fibre cable 
systems, including its maintenance, operation, repair, future expansion, and research and 
development activities. Along these lines, in July  2022, Fiji amended the 2008 Telecommunications 
Act to empower the Minister in charge of telecommunications to prescribe a portion of the licence 
application fees, annual operating licence fees , and other administrative fees collected by the TAF. 
TAF.102 The collected fees aim to finance the Telecommunication s Development Trust Fund. 
Subsequently, the Minister in charge of telecommunications increased the annual operating licence 
fee, which applies to cellular mobile operators and telecommunication s service providers (excluding 
mobile), to 2% of the aggregate gr oss revenue.103 This amendment and the resulting fee change 
came into effect on 2  August  2022. 
4.125.   In February  2021, the Parliament enacted the Cybercrime Act 2021. The new Act governs, 
inter alia, (i) offences against the confidentiality, integrity , and availability of computer data and 
 
96 Alcatel Submarine Networks  (2020) , "OPT-NC to Deploy Its Second Submarine Cable and Sec ure All 
International and Domestic Communications of New Caledonia ", 16 June. Viewed at: 
https://web.asn.com/press -release/opt -nc.html .  
97 ATH, 2022 Annual Report.  Viewed at: http://www.ath.com.fj/images/ath2022annualreport.pdf .  
98 Asian Development Bank, Pacific Telecommunications Modernization Project: Client Information . 
Viewed at: https://www.adb.org/sites/default/files/linked -documents/54204 -001-sd.pdf .  
99 A list of relevant ministerial orders can be seen at https://fccc.gov.fj/telecommunication/ . 
100 Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (Control of Prices for Interconnection Services Rates) 
Order 2021. The Order defines interconnection services as "a ny wholesale service provided or offered by any 
person in relation to interconnection and includes off -net services"  (para.  2). 
101 Telecommunications Act 2008, Article  48.1. 
102 Telecommunications (Budged Amendment) Act 2022. This power used to be vested sole ly in TAF . 
103 Telecommunications (Amendment) Regulations 2022. (The fee before the amendment was 
stipulated as " FJD 1 million  or 1.5% of the aggregate gross revenue whichever is greater".)  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 74 - 
 
 computer systems; (ii)  computer -related and content -related offences; (iii)  procedural matters such 
as criminal investigation ; and (iv)  international cooperation with foreign governments or agencies. 
At the time of wr iting, the Act entered into force in November  2022. 
4.126.   As for protection of personal data, Fiji's Constitution provides that every person has the right 
to personal privacy including the confidentiality of their personal information and their 
communication s.104 
4.4.3   Transport  
4.4.3.1   Land transport  
4.127.   Due to Fiji's topography , which leaves few route alternatives, land transport activities are 
restricted. There are two main roads : the Queens Road in the south and the Kings Road in the north. 
They connect the most important hubs in Fiji, Suva , and Nadi. Of the national road netwo rk, 
3,440  km are paved, and 1,692  km are unpaved.  The country's  outer islands lack adequate road 
infrastructure. Poor road conditions and insufficient maintenance continue to challenge the country's 
competitiveness and integration with local and regional m arkets. An Infrastructure Rehabilitation 
and Development Fund is in place to fund road maintenance. The Fund is mainly financed through a 
road user levy collected on vehicle registrations.  
4.128.   Under the Ministry of Public Works, Transport, and Meteorological Services, t he Department 
of Transport is responsible for the implementation of the main legal instruments in land and maritime 
transport industries. In particular , the Land Transport Act 1998  and its supporting regulations govern 
land transport services.  
4.129.   The Land Transport Authority of Fiji is responsible for vehicle and driver licensing and 
registration , while the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) is responsible for road infrastructure.  Nationals and 
foreigners can be licensed to undertake land transpo rt services in Fiji under the same terms.  
4.130.   There is no operating commercial railroad in Fiji. Small-scale railways , predominantly around 
the Nadi/Lautoka area , are widely used for the transport of sugar cane  during the cane harvest . 
4.131.   No industry -specific tax  is collected in the land transport sector.  
4.4.3.2   Maritime transport and ports  
4.132.   Maritime transport is vital to Fiji's international trade. In 2021, 79.1% of Fiji's trade occurred 
by means of maritime transport from 80.7% in 2016.105 Furthermore, given the country's 
geographical dispersion, inter -island sea transportation is essential for livelihood. The private sector 
plays a lead role in providing domestic shipping services, including both passenger ferries and freight 
services.  
4.133.   The Government aims to tran sform Fiji into a regional and international marine transport 
hub, and it recognizes the need to improve cargo -volume handling for imports, exports , and 
transhipments.106 To this end, the authorities are looking to increase both public and private 
investmen ts to raise berthing capacity and water depth, improve port efficiency, reduce turnaround 
time, adopt IT technology, and make relevant services available with reasonable charges. In this 
context, the authorities indicate that they are seeking to have a por t management aspect in their 
ongoing single window initiative . 
 
104 Constitution of the Republic of Fiji , Clause  24.1. 
105 Fiji Bureau o f Statistics, International Merchandise Trade Statistics: Annual 2021.  Viewed at: 
https://www.statsfiji.gov.fj/latest -releases/trade/international -merchandise -trade/1239 -intern ational -
merchandise -trade -statistics -annual -2021.html .  
106 Ministry of Economy, 5-Year & 20 -Year National Development Plan: Transforming Fiji . Viewed at: 
https://www.fiji.gov.fj/getattachment/15b0ba03 -825e-47f7-bf69-094ad33004dd/5 -Year-20-Year-NATIONAL -
DEVELOPMENT -PLAN.aspx .  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 75 - 
 
 4.134.   The Maritime Transport Act 2013 and its subsidiary regulations107 continue to form a general 
regulatory framework for Fiji's maritime activities. The Act prescribes inter alia, (i) duties and 
offences in relation to maritime activity; (ii)  liabilities of ship owners and others; (iii)  shipping 
(including licence for commercial shipping services); (iv)  salvage ; and (v)  marine pollution 
prevention and management. In addition, the Ship Registration Act 2013108 and its subsidiary 
regulations stipulate the requirements that must be fulfilled to register ships in Fiji.  
4.135.   The M aritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF)109 is a statutory agency  of the Ministry of Public 
Works, Transport, and Meteorological Services,  which administers the regulation of maritime safety, 
marine environment protection, and port security. Its specific fun ctions include registration and 
certification of vessels, certification of maritime services providers, licensing and certification of 
seafarers, and vessel traffic management. It is also responsible for Fiji's accession to, and compliance 
with, internatio nal maritime conventions.  
4.136.   Ship registration requirements did not change substantially during the review period. In 
accordance with the Ship Registration Act 2013, a ship can be registered under Fiji's Register only 
if it is a Fiji -owned ship110 and not regi stered in a foreign country. An exception to this ownership 
requirement is made under certain circumstances specified by the Act.111 Any second -hand ship, 
which has been imported for a commercial purpose and is 20 years old or more, cannot be registered 
unless approval is given by the Minister. A chartered vessel with crew may only be registered by the 
appointed agent who must be a Fiji resident or have a registered office in Fiji.  
4.137.   The proportion of crew to be Fiji nationals in registered ships  stands at 70% for a Fijian ship 
engaged in an international voyage , 90% for a Fijian ship that acquires a coasting -trade licence  
(CTL) , and 70% for a Fijian ship engaged in fishing in Fiji's waters ( in territorial waters, in the EEZ, 
and on the high seas) . 
4.138.   The Maritime Transport Act 2013 and the Maritime (Coasting -trade) Regulations 2014 oblige 
a coastal ship that wishes to engage in the coasting -trade within Fiji's waters to obtain licences or 
permits. In case a ship is a registered ship under the Ship Re gistration Act 2013, the MSAF may 
grant a CTL to the owner or charterer of the ship. In the case of a foreign registered ship (i.e. a ship 
that is not registered under the Act), as at the time of the previous Review, cabotage is in principle 
not allowed bu t can be permitted in a specified area, provided that no domestic equivalent services 
are available. In this case, the Minister responsible for transport may grant a coasting -trade permit 
(CTP) to the owner or master of the ship. In determining to issue a CTP, the Minister considers, 
inter alia, whether a particular shipping service has been provided by domestic ships with CTLs , and 
if so, their service has been inadequate, inefficient, or unreasonably costly. CTPs are valid only for 
a single voyage by a sp ecific ship. Applications for both CTL s and CTP s shall be submitted to the 
MSAF.112 Foreign ships must also obtain a permit to provide pushing and towing services.  
4.139.   During the review period, Fiji made several amendments to its licensing regime with a view 
to streamlining the necessary procedures. The reforms were implemented through the Maritime 
Transport (Budget Amendment) Act 2021, which came into force on 1  August  2021. Among the new 
measures, Fiji extended the validity time of CTLs from 12 months t o 20 years.  
4.140.   Coastal and inter -island shipping services are operated by both private shipping companies 
and the Government. The Government Shipping Franchise Scheme, a subsidy programme, has 
continued to be in place to support communities in outer islands t o have reasonable and affordable 
access to shipping services.113 Although the government -owned Fiji Shipping Corporation 
administered the scheme through tenders, the function was transferred to the Department of 
 
107 Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji, Legislation . Viewed at: https://www.msaf.com.fj/legislation/ . All 
legal texts can be retrieved from this site . 
108 It was previously the Ship Registration Degree 2013.  
109 MSAF is a 100% state -owned entity. It is not listed as a public enterprise.  
110 "Fiji-owned s hip" includes, inter alia, a ship owned by a Fiji national or nationals or joint owners with 
a majority of Fiji  nationals .  
111 This exception applies where a ship (i)  is a pleasure craft; (ii)  calls at ports or places in Fiji; or (iii)  is 
normally engaged on a qualifying route and the operations of which are managed by the appointed ship's agent 
on behalf of its owner, from a place of business in Fiji . Ship Registration Act 2013 , Section  4.3. 
112 Maritime (Coasting -trade) Regulations 2014 , Regulations  4 & 25 . 
113 For details, see WTO document WT/TPR/S/330/Rev.1 , 26 April 2016, p ara. 4.123.  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 76 - 
 
 Transport. As at October  2022, Fiji supports 10 routes that it sees as uneconomical.114 The number 
of passengers who utili ze the shipping service under this scheme shows a downward trend . In 2017, 
21,627  passengers used the scheme, but the number dropped by about 70% to 6,523 in 2021.  
4.141.   In general, fore ign investment is allowed in maritime transport and port services, subject to 
the requirements of the 2022 Foreign Investment Regulations ( Section  2.4). 
4.142.   Passenger fares and freight rates are regulated through orders. The most recent, the Fijian 
Competition  and Consumer Commission (Control of Maritime Shipping Services, Freight Rates and 
Passenger Fares) Order 2019 allows the FCCC to control prices for the supply of all maritime shipping 
services, freight rates , and passenger fares in Fiji through the end of 2022.  
4.143.   Fiji owns six official seaports: Suva, Lautoka, Levuka, Malau, Rotuma, and Wairiki. Among 
those, Suva and Lautoka remain Fiji's busiest and biggest container and general ports, handling 
about 95% of the country's cargo imports and exports.115 Port activities significantly decreased in 
2020 and 2021 due mainly to restrictive measures during the COVID -19 pandemic (Table  4.10). The 
Fiji Ports Corporation Ltd (FPCL) is a port management company that owns, operates, and has 
regulatory oversight for all d eclared ports in Fiji in accordance with the Sea Ports Management Act 
2005 and the Sea Ports Management Regulations 2008. It owns the infrastructure, performs the 
harbourmaster function, and provides services such as pilotage, vessel traffic services and 
anchorage, and safety and security.  
Table  4.10 Fiji's port call and performance, 2018 -21 
 2018  2019  2020  2021  
Number of port calls ( all ships)  1,974  2,342  1,973  1,335  
Number of port calls (passenger ships)  924 1,205  879 337 
Median time spend in ports (days)  0.97 1.07 1.08 1.12 
Average size of vessels (gross tonnage)  12,193  10,285  8,624  9,630  
Average cargo carrying capacity per vessel (dwt)  13,827  12,049  11,161  11,659  
Average container carrying capacity (dwt) per container 
ship  1,296  1,395  1,362  1,368  
Source:  UNCTAD  STAT (maritime transport). Viewed at: https://unctadstat.unctad.org/EN/Index.html . 
4.144.   The FPCL was a wholly government -owned entity until November  2015. However, 59% of 
its share was divested and sold to the FNPF (39%) and the Sri  Lanka n conglomerate Aitken 
Spence  (20%). Fiji Ports Terminal Ltd (FPTL), a subsidiary of the FPCL,  continues to provide cargo 
operation services, including providing stevedoring services and storage facilities to its local and 
international stakeholders at the two main ports in Fiji, Suva and Lautoka. Fiji Ships and Heavy 
Industries Ltd, a subsidiary of the FPCL, provides emergency slipping  and ship repair and 
maintenance services , as well as heavy industrial and engineering works. The ship maintenance and 
repair industr ies are open to both  local and foreign service suppliers.  
4.145.   Prices or rates for the supply of all ports management services in Fiji are controlled by  the 
FCCC by means of orders. As a first step in the process, prices or rates are set by the FPCL in 
consultation with shipping companies. The proposed rates are reviewed by the FCCC  and ultimately 
approved by the Cabinet. The latest ministerial order prescrib es that the FCCC is empowered to 
authorize and monitor the prices for the supply of all port management services until 
28 March  2024.116 
4.4.3.3   Air transport and airports  
4.146.   Air transport services are crucial to Fiji's economic performance, mainly to its tourism 
industry, which relies heavily on  air travellers. In addition, air transport is important to Fiji's 
international trade for certain high -value products that require a short time to market. The COVID -19 
pandemic took a major toll on the flow of esse ntial goods and passenger services.  
 
114 MCTTT, Government Shipping Franchise Scheme . Viewed at: 
https:// www.mcttt.gov.fj/division/transport/government -shipping -franchise -scheme/ .  
115 FPTL, About Us . Viewed at: https://www.fijiportsterminal.com/about -us.  
116 FCCC  (Control of Prices for Ports Management Services) Order 2021 . WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 77 - 
 
 4.147.   The Department of Civil Aviation is responsible for policy formulation and economic 
regulation of air transport, including licensing of international air services operators. The Department 
also handles relations with for eign aviation authorities, negotiates air services agreements, and 
oversees Fiji's compliance with the standards of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) 
and other international conventions relating to civil aviation to which Fiji is a party . Fiji is also a 
member of the Pacific Aviation Safety and Security Organization.  The Government 's 20-year 
Development Plan on Air Connectivity  and the Fiji Draft Aviation Policy are the main sectoral 
strategies for the aviation sector.  The authorities indicate that the strategies have supported the 
moderni zation of the Nadi International Airport. In addition, several other projects are planned under 
the strategies , including the plan to revamp Nausori International Airport, the renewal and expansion 
of Fiji Airways, and the expansion of Fiji Airways global network footprint to promote new tourist 
source markets.  
4.148.   Airports Fiji Ltd (AFL), a state -owned enterprise, is responsible for the management of 
airports. It owns and operates Fiji's t wo international airports at Nadi and Nausori (Suva) and 
administers the 13 airports in the outer islands. An airport departure charge of FJD  100 per 
passenger is collected by the FRCS.  Airport security and development fees of FJD  18.54 per 
passenger is charged for departing and transiting passengers.  
4.149.   The Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji Act 1979 and other relevant legislation, the Civil Aviation 
Act 1976, the Civil Aviation (Security) Act 1994, and the Civil Aviation Reform Act 1999 , togethe r 
with a body of supporting regulations , regulate the registration and certification of aircraft and 
operators , licensing of aircrew , certification of airports and aerodromes , and control of air traffic, 
among other  things . The Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji (CAAF), a statutory body directly accountable 
to the Minister of Civil Aviation, is responsible for the implementation of the Act. It oversees the 
development and implementation of technical regulations in the air transport sector in order to  
ensure c ompliance with national and international aviation safety standards.  
4.150.   As at the time of the previous Review, Fiji Airways is the country's flag carrier. It operates 
international and domestic services, together with its subsidiary Fiji Link, serving 35 dest inations in 
13 countries (including code -share). Other domestic airlines that service domestic air routes in Fiji 
include Fiji Link, Northern Air Services, Pacific Island Air Ltd, Island Hoppers  Ltd, Sunflower Aviation, 
Air Laucala Ltd, Heli -Tours Ltd, Tur tle Airways Ltd, Hibiscus Air Ltd, Air Kaibu, and Kokomo Resorts . 
Fiji Airways transports 64% of all visitors who fly to Fiji every year and employs over 1,500 staff . 
The Government owns 51% of the airline, Qantas 16%, and the remainder is held by Air 
New Zealand  and the governments of several Pacific Island countries . No air carrier may operate 
under the laws of Fiji unless it is a citizen of Fiji , which, f or this purpose, means: (i)  the Government 
of Fiji or any institution of the State; (ii)  an indiv idual who is a citizen of Fiji; (iii)  a partnership each 
of whose partners is an individual who is a citizen of Fiji; or (iv)  a corporation or association of which 
at least 51% of the voting interest is owned and controlled by persons who are citizens of F iji, at 
least two  thirds of the board of directors are citizens of Fiji, and such corporation or association is 
under actual and effective control of citizens of Fiji.  
4.151.   Some 10 foreign airlines including Virgin Australia, Air New  Zealand , Korean Airlines, 
Air Vanuatu, Solomon Airlines, Air Niugini, Air Nauru, Air Kiribati, Air Marshall Islands , and Air 
Caledonia International operate to and from Fiji. Their operations into and out Fiji require an approval 
from the Minister in charge of Civil Aviat ion who issues licences on the basis of bilateral air services 
agreements (ASAs). The safety oversight of airline operators that are registered in Fiji falls under 
the responsibility of the CAAF, who issues Foreign Airline Operating Certificates to these operators. 
Landing Permits are also issued by the Minister responsible for Civil Aviation for non -scheduled and 
charter operations in and out of Fiji.  
4.152.   The Government considers that Fiji is not yet prepared to enter into open skies agreements, 
in order to pr eserve the viability of Fiji Airways' operation. Therefore, it does not favour granting 
fifth and sixth freedom rights.117 International air cargo services for all types of commodities are 
available on all aircraft operating out of Nadi International Airpor t. Minimum air cargo rates are 
prescribed after consultation with the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Reduced 
 
117 Ministerial statement by the Attorney -General, also Minister for Civil Aviation, Aiyaz Sayed -Khaiyum, 
12 February  2015. Viewed at: http://fijisun.com.fj/2015/02/14/how -our-aviation -sector -is-taking -off-strongly/ . WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 78 - 
 
 commodity rates are negotiable with the transporters on the basis of bulk and frequency, and certain 
transporters offer special ch eaper consolidated rates based on a grouping system.  
4.153.   Domestic airlines are licensed by the Air Transport Licensing Board (ATLB) of the Department 
of Civil Aviation, in accordance with the criteria stipulated in the Civil Aviation (Licensing of Air 
Services ) Regulations. In considering a licence application, the ATLB conducts an economic needs 
test to determine whether the routes proposed are adequately serviced and whether there is any 
demand for additional air services. The route that the applicant intends  to service must not be 
adequately serviced by an existing airline. The duration of the licence is determined by the Board. 
The ATLB also determines the airfares to be charged on the domestic routes, taking into account 
factors such as the cost of operatin g the service, the cost of aircraft spare parts, the cost of fuel and 
the financial status of the airline. According to the authorities, airfares are structured to allow the 
air operators to charge fares depending on the demand. A minimum to maximum window  fare is 
granted to airlines. Pursuant to the Civil Aviation (Ownership and Control of National Airlines) Decree 
No. 26 of 2012, no air carrier may operate under the laws of Fiji unless it is a citizen of Fiji  (see 
definition above) . 
4.154.   To encourage air opera tors onto routes deemed uneconomical, the Government continues 
to implement its airlines subsidy scheme for air services to eight routes via a tender process open 
to all domestic airlines. The airlines bid the cost of operating such services , and the Government 
subsidizes any shortfalls in the total revenue generated on a trip.  
4.155.   As indicated during the previous Review, ground -handling services continue to function 
under a monopolistic approach. Air Terminal Services Fiji Ltd (ATSFL) is the only company p roviding 
ground -handling services to international carriers at Nadi Airport. Its services include aircraft 
maintenance, catering and cabin services, baggage handling, passenger check -in, ramp services, 
and freight sales and handling. The company is owned b y the Government (51%) and the employees 
(49%). Fiji Airways provides ground -handling services at the Nausori Airport. Sunflower Aviation 
and Fiji Airways are also licensed as ground -handling agents.  
4.4.4   Tourism  
4.156.   The tourism industry is the backbone of the Fiji an economy. Its total contribution to GDP 
stands at some 38%.118 The sector is the largest provider of the country's foreign exchange earnings 
and a major source of job creation.  
4.157.   Australia (54% of visitor arrivals in 2022) and New  Zealand  (24%)  account fo r over 
three  quarters of the total arrivals, mainly due to geographical proximity. The United  States , 
EU member  States , the United  Kingdom,  and Canada are the other important markets. 119 Visitor 
arrivals were on an increasing trend since 2016 but slumped in 2019 and 2021 due to the restrictive 
pandemic -related measures (Table  4.11). 
4.158.   Under the  Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation,  the Department of  Tourism formulates and 
implements policies and strategies with a view to promoting a sustainable, inclusive , and resilient 
tourism industry. It also undertakes research, data collection, product development , and strategies 
to encourage investment in the t ourism industry. The Department oversees the performance of 
Tourism Fiji, a government corporation that is tasked with promoting Fiji as a tourist destination, 
mainly through marketing campaigns.120 
 
118 IFC (2020) , Fiji COVID -19 Business Survey: Tourism Focus . Viewed at: 
https://www.ifc.org/wps/wcm/connect/4fc358f9 -5b07-4580-a28c-8d24bfaf9c63/Fiji +COVID -
19+Business+Survey+Results+ -+Tourism+Focus+Final.pdf?MOD=AJPERES&CVID=ndnpJrE . 
119 Fiji Bureau of Statistics , Tourism and Migration . Viewed at: https://www.stat sfiji.gov.fj/latest -
releases/tourism -and-migration.html . 
120 The former Fiji Islands Visitors Bureau was renamed as Tourism Fiji in 2009 through the Fiji Islands 
Visitors Bureau (Amendment) Promulgation 2009.  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 79 - 
 
 Table  4.11 Tourism indicators, 2016 -22 
 2016  2017  2018  2019  2020  2021  2022  
Visitor arrivals (number)  792,320  842,884  870,309  894,389  146,905  31,618  636,312  
Visitor departures (number)  756,288  800,441  831,639  863,518  163,151  18,314  571,874  
Average length of stay (days)  11.2 11.2 11.2 11.1 11.0 14.6 11.7 
Room occupancy rate (%)  54.3 54.8 55.4 55.8 23.5 14.96  42.5 
Hotel receipts  
(FJD million ) .. 1,058,414  1,303,686  1,303,686  251,948  92,604  580,195  
Earnings from tourism  
(FJD million ) 1,823.4  1,924.3  2,010.3  2,065.4  314.9  36.5 964 
.. Not available.  
Source:  Fiji Bureau of Statistics.  
4.159.   The legal framework in the tourism industry did not change significantly during the review 
period. Legislation pertaining to the tourism sector includes the Hotels and Guest House Act 1973, 
the Hotels and Guest House (Amendment) Act 2006,  Hotels and Guest Houses (Amendment) Act 
2021, Regulation of Surfing Areas Act 2010, the Tourism Fiji  Act 2004, the Fiji Islands Visitors Bureau 
(Amendment) Promulgation 2009, the Foreign Investment Regulations  2009 (as amended in 2013) 
as well as other activity or project specific decrees.121 
4.160.   The Hotels and Guest House Act 1973 prohibits the use of any pr emises as a hotel 
accommodation unless the manager has obtained a licence in respect of those premises from the 
Hotels Licensing Board under the jurisdiction of the Office of the Attorney -General, as well as many 
other authorizations by other government departments.  
4.161.   Under the GATS, Fiji adopted specific commitments for hotels, motels, other tourist 
accommodation s, and restaurants with no limitations on market access and national treatment in 
modes 1, 2 , and 3, except for the requirements of normal governm ent approval and registration for 
all foreign investors. In mode 4, entry is limited to managers and skilled employees, who are required 
to train locals on the job.  
4.162.   Most tourism activities are open to foreigners and nationals. Under the Foreign (Reserved 
and Restricted Activities) Investment Regulation 2022, there is a minimum investment threshold for 
a foreign investor wishing to engage in certain tourism -related activities. The exceptions to open 
foreign participation in tourism consist of homestay lodgin g services  and backpacker operators, 
which are reserved for nationals , in accordance with the Foreign Investment Regulations 2022.  
4.163.   The Government is cognizant that tourism is an important driver for economic activities. It 
has, in the past, implemented a number of strategies and plans to encourage the sector's growth. 
As the sector moves into a more complex phase of its development wi th growing visitor arrivals, the 
authorities implemented during the review period Fijian Tourism 2021 (FT 2021), a comprehensive 
development plan to maintain industry growth, in particular expanding the tourism industry 's worth  
from FJD  1.9 billion  in 2017  to FJD  2.2 billion  with 930,000 visitor arrivals by the end of 2021. This 
goal was to be achieved through, inter alia, an investment climate that encourages innovation, 
effective collaboration between the Government and the private sector , and forward pla nning for 
infrastructure and services. The authorities also rely on increased international and domestic air 
access to create new pathways for sector development. Additionally, FT 2021 sought to ensure 
sustainability of the tourism industry, by supporting the streamlining of legislation and polices in Fiji. 
Several strategies have since been implemented , including upgrading essential infrastructure such 
as airport and roads, revitalizing the tourism brand, assessing the cruise industry and the linkages 
between tourism and agriculture, modernizing the International Visitor Survey, investing in sports 
tourism, updating investment legislation, and  further streamlining the tourism licensing regime . 
4.164.   According to the authorities, the Department of Tourism is leadi ng a new strategy, a 
successor plan called the National Sustainable Tourism Framework (NSTF). The NSTF will be a 
10-year Framework intended to build on the FT 2021 strategies whil e focusing on sustainability, 
resilience , and inclusiveness.  
 
121 These include Regulation of Surfing Areas Decre e 2010, Superyacht Charter Decree 2010, and 
Denarau (Nadi River) Development Decree 2011.  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 80 - 
 
 4.165.   During the review period, among measures taken to support tourism activities,  the Service 
Turnover Tax and Environment and Climate Adapt ation Levy were suspended in the context of the 
COVID -19 pan demic. In addition, hotels and resorts were eligible for duty -free importation during 
that period.  
4.166.   As was the case during the previous Review, t he tourism industry benefits from a range of 
other investment incentives (Table  4.12); according to the authorit ies, there has been no 
Government -conducted impact assessment of the incentives .  
Table  4.12 Tourism incentives  
Programme  Beneficiaries  Benefits  
Standard Allowance  Hotels and international 
retiree facilities  Deduction of 50% of total capital expenditure 
(in addition to ordinary depreciation) against 
business income provided there is no shift of tax 
revenue to other countries. Applies to building 
of new facilities, including renovations, 
refurbishmen t, or extensions of existing hotel 
and international retiree facilities , and buying 
and selling of residential units in hotel and 
integrated tourism developments.  
Short Life Investment 
Package (SLIP)  Hotels, international 
retiree facilities , and 
hospital resorts  A tax holiday of 5  to 20 years (depending on 
capital invested) for capital investments of not 
less than FJD  250,000. SLIP incentives are 
available for retiree facilities, hospital resorts , 
and new apartments provided the length of sta y 
is not more than six months.  
Backpacker operators  Backpacker hotels  Income tax exemptions for operators with an 
annual sales turnover of up to F JD 1 million .  
Jet skis Companies registered to 
operate water 
sports -related businesses  Duty concessions at a rate of 5%, and 
exemption for excise and VAT where applicable.  
Existing hotels and resorts  Approved hotels and 
resorts  Duty concession on building material, 
furnishings and fittings, equipment including 
front office equipment, room amenities, kitchen 
and dining room equipment, utensils, and 
specialized water sport equipment.  
Source:  FRCS , Hotel Investment Incentive . Viewed at: 
https://www.frcs.org.fj/wp -content/uploads/2022/11/Incentive -Brochures -2022-24_11_22 -update -c
ompressed.pdf . 
  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 81 - 
 
 5  APPENDIX TABLES  
Table A1. 1 Merchandise re -exports by HS section, 2016 -21 
HS Section/chapter/subheading  2016  2017  2018  2019  2020  2021  
Total re -exports (USD  million)  379.5  459.0  443.9  424.9  299.2  274.3  
01 Live animals and products  19.1 22.2 15.6 15.3 19.5 18.0 
02 Vegetable products  0.4 0.2 0.3 0.3 0.5 0.8 
03 Fats and oils  0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.2 0.3 
04 Prepared food, beverages and tobacco  2.6 4.0 7.7 4.6 7.2 7.6 
05 Mineral products  44.8 37.8 46.9 45.0 35.9 33.3 
06 Chemicals and products thereof  3.4 2.5 2.5 2.1 3.2 5.2 
07 Plastics and rubber  1.0 0.9 0.7 0.5 0.9 0.8 
08 Raw hides and skins; leather, furskins and 
articles thereof  0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.1 0.1 
09 Wood, cork, straw  0.2 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.3 
10 Pulp of wood; paper and paperboard  0.1 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.3 0.5 
11 Textiles and textile articles  1.5 1.2 1.0 0.9 2.2 1.8 
12 Footwear, headgear, etc.  0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.2 
13 Articles of stone, plaster, cement  0.2 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.2 0.2 
14 Precious stones and metals  0.3 1.1 0.2 0.2 0.0 0.0 
15 Base metals and articles thereof  5.6 4.7 5.0 5.4 6.9 8.0 
16 Machinery, electrical equipment  11.6 19.2 12.3 16.9 9.5 11.3 
17 Transport equipment  4.5 3.4 4.9 5.4 10.1 9.0 
18 Precision equipment  2.9 0.8 0.6 0.7 0.7 1.0 
19 Arms and ammunition  0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 
20 Miscellaneous manufactured articles  1.0 1.1 1.1 1.4 1.2 1.2 
21 Works of art, etc.  0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 
Other   
0.5 0.4 0.4 0.6 1.4 0.5 
Source:  WTO Secretariat calculations, based on UN Comtrade database.  
  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 82 - 
 
 Table A1. 2 Merchandise exports by HS section and major HS chapter/subheading, 
2016 -21 
HS Section/chapter/subheading  2016  2017  2018  2019  2020  2021  
Total exports (USD  million)  922.0  1,036.1  1,006.8  965.2  826.2  815.3  
01 Live animals and products  14.1 14.5 11.2 11.5 10.8 9.5  
03 Fish and crustaceans, molluscs 
and other aquatic invertebrates  13.3 13.7 10.5 10.8 10.0 8.6 
 
0303 Frozen fish  9.7 10.3 8.0 9.0 9.0 7.5 
02 Vegetable products  5.1 4.7 5.0 5.6 7.3 8.7  
07 Edible vegetables and certain 
roots and tubers  1.7 1.5 1.6 1.7 2.0 2.5 
 
12 Oil seeds and oleaginous fruits; 
miscellaneous grains, seeds, fruit, 
and plants  0.7 1.1 1.5 1.6 2.1 2.4 
03 Fats and oils  0.5 0.4 0.5 0.3 0.4 0.4 
04 Prepared food, beverages and tobacco  24.7 28.7 26.6 27.3 24.4 28.6  
16 Meat, fish and seafood food 
preparations  1.5 1.6 1.8 1.5 2.2 2.4 
 
17 Sugars and sugar confectionery  6.4 9.2 4.5 5.5 6.8 5.4  
1701 Cane or beet sugar and 
chemically pure sucrose, in solid 
form 6.1 8.4 3.8 4.8 5.6 3.8 
 
19 Preparations of cereals, flour, 
starch or milk  3.2 3.0 3.1 3.5 4.3 5.0 
 
22 Beverages, spirits and vinegar  12.2 12.1 13.3 14.5 8.8 13.2  
220110 Mineral and aerated 
waters  11.0 11.4 12.5 14.1 8.3 12.8 
05 Mineral products  19.9 17.8 22.1 20.4 13.8 12.0  
27 Mineral fuels and oils  18.5 16.8 20.7 19.8 13.0 11.2  
2710 Petroleum oils and oils from 
bituminous minerals, not crude  18.1 16.6 20.3 19.5 12.8 10.6 
06 Chemicals and products thereof  2.7 2.6 2.9 2.8 3.4 4.1 
07 Plastics and rubber  0.8 0.7 0.7 0.7 0.8 0.7 
08 Raw hides and skins; leather, furskins and 
articles thereof  0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 
09 Wood, cork, straw  3.3 1.3 4.6 2.9 4.4 7.1  
44 Wood and articles of wood, 
wood charcoal  3.3 1.3 4.6 2.9 4.4 7.1 
 
440122 Wood for fuel, in chips or 
particles, non -coniferous  1.5 0.5 3.7 1.8 3.1 4.4 
10 Pulp of wood; paper and paperboard  1.3 1.3 1.4 1.3 1.5 1.6 
11 Textiles and textile articles  6.2 5.1 5.4 5.3 5.2 5.3  
62 Articles of apparel and clothing 
accessories, not knitted or 
crocheted  4.1 3.3 3.5 3.7 3.4 3.2 
12 Footwear, headgear, etc.  0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.0 0.1 
13 Articles of stone, plaster, cement  0.2 0.3 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 
14 Precious stones and metals  6.8 6.1 5.6 5.3 7.1 7.2  
7108 Gold, unwrought or in 
semi-manufactured forms, or in 
powder form  6.3 5.5 5.4 5.2 7.0 7.2 
15 Base metals and articles thereof  3.1 2.9 3.1 3.3 3.5 3.9  
73 Articles of iron or steel  2.2 1.9 2.0 2.2 2.3 2.4 
16 Machinery, electrical equipment  6.2 9.8 6.6 8.6 4.7 5.4  
85 Electrical and electronic 
equipment  4.5 8.0 5.2 7.1 3.5 3.8 
17 Transport equipment  2.0 1.9 2.3 2.5 4.5 3.2  
88 Aircraft, spacecraft, and parts 
thereof  1.2 0.8 1.1 1.8 3.4 2.5 
18 Precision equipment  1.3 0.5 0.3 0.4 0.4 0.5 
19 Arms and ammunition  0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 
20 Miscellaneous manufactured articles  0.8 0.8 0.8 0.9 0.8 0.8 
21 Works of art, etc.  0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 
Other  0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 6.8 0.5 
Source:  WTO Secretariat calculations, based on UN Comtrade database.   WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 83 - 
 
 Table A1. 3 Merchandise exports by destination, 2016 -21 
  2016  2017  2018  2019  2020  2021  
Total exports (USD  million)  922.0  1,036.1  1,006.8  965.2  826.2  815.3   
(% of total exports)  
Americas  19.4 19.3 19.2 22.9 21.0 22.4 
 United  States  18.3 17.8 18.6 21.7 20.4 20.5 
 Other America  1.0 1.5 0.6 1.2 0.6 1.9 
     Canada  0.5 0.9 0.4 0.6 0.5 0.8 
Europe  6.9 8.7 3.7 5.9 8.2 2.7 
 EU-27 2.5 4.2 3.3 4.4 2.5 1.1 
 EFTA 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 
 Other Europe  4.4 4.5 0.4 1.5 5.7 1.7 
     United  Kingdom  4.4 4.5 0.4 1.5 5.7 1.7 
CISa 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 
Africa  0.3 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.1 0.2 
Middle East  0.2 0.7 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.3 
Asia/Oceania  60.6 59.9 62.4 57.5 61.8 69.4 
 China  5.1 4.8 5.6 3.5 4.9 5.7 
 Japan  3.1 3.2 4.5 3.1 3.0 4.0 
 Other Asia/Oceania  52.4 51.9 52.3 50.9 53.9 59.7 
     Australia  15.0 14.4 13.4 13.7 15.0 16.5 
     New Zealand  7.0 6.7 6.8 7.6 7.0 8.2 
     Tonga  4.2 4.5 5.2 5.2 4.9 5.8 
     Vanuatu  4.2 3.1 3.0 2.9 3.4 3.6 
     Samoa  2.5 2.3 2.4 2.8 3.1 3.5 
     Kiribati  3.4 2.3 1.9 1.9 2.4 3.1 
     Tuvalu  1.0 1.1 2.2 1.5 1.6 2.1 
     American Samoa  1.3 1.0 1.8 1.5 2.6 1.9 
     Viet Nam 1.0 0.6 1.5 1.8 2.1 1.8 
     Korea, Republic of  0.3 0.4 0.3 0.6 0.4 1.7 
     Papua New Guinea  1.8 0.9 2.4 1.2 1.8 1.4 
     Solomon  Islands  1.3 1.3 1.2 1.2 1.4 1.4 
     Wallis and Futuna Islands  1.0 1.0 1.1 1.0 1.2 1.3 
     Cook Islands  1.1 1.4 1.5 1.8 1.0 1.0 
     Marshall Islands  0.1 0.2 0.2 0.3 0.5 0.7 
     French Polynesia  0.5 0.7 1.2 0.6 0.7 0.7 
Other  12.8 11.3 14.2 13.4 8.6 5.0 
 Bunkers  8.0 6.1 8.3 8.3 3.9 1.4 
a Commonwealth of Independent States, including certain associate and former member States.  
Note:  Bunkers are ship stores and aircraft supplies, which consist mostly of fuels and food.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat calculations, based on UN Comtrade database.  
  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 84 - 
 
 Table A1. 4 Merchandise imports by HS section and major HS chapter/subheading, 
2016 -21 
HS Section/chapter/subheading  2016  2017  2018  2019  2020  2021  
Total imports (USD  million)  2,301.7  2,406.0  2,729.1  2,781.2  1,730.5  2,115.6    
(% of total imports)  
01 Live animals and products  6.5 6.6 4.9 4.3 6.4 5.1  
04 Dairy products, eggs, honey  1.9 2.0 2.0 1.8 2.4 2.4 
02 Vegetable products  5.6 5.6 5.2 5.4 8.0 7.1  
10 Cereals  2.8 2.7 2.5 2.7 4.4 3.9  
1001 Wheat and meslin  1.9 1.8 1.7 2.0 3.0 2.5 
03 Fats and oils  1.2 1.3 1.2 0.9 1.8 1.9 
04 Prepared food, beverages and tobacco  5.0 4.9 5.1 4.5 6.1 6.2 
05 Mineral products  15.9 19.6 21.3 19.5 18.1 17.1  
27 Mineral fuels and oils  15.2 18.8 20.8 18.9 17.4 16.5  
2710 Petroleum oils and oils from 
bituminous minerals, not crude  14.1 17.6 19.3 17.8 16.3 14.9 
06 Chemicals and products thereof  5.9 5.8 5.8 4.9 7.3 7.6  
30 Pharmaceutical products  1.2 1.3 1.3 1.1 1.9 2.3 
07 Plastics and rubber  5.5 5.1 5.3 4.3 5.6 6.2  
39 Plastics and articles thereof  4.2 4.1 4.2 3.4 4.4 5.1 
08 Raw hides and skins; leather, furskins and 
articles thereof  0.3 0.3 0.3 0.2 0.2 0.2 
09 Wood, cork, straw  1.1 0.6 0.5 0.4 0.5 0.4 
10 Pulp of wood; paper and paperboard  2.9 2.8 2.7 2.4 3.0 2.6  
48 Paper and paperboard; articles of 
paper pulp  2.3 2.3 2.4 1.9 2.4 2.2 
11 Textiles and textile articles  4.8 4.3 4.1 3.8 3.9 4.1 
12 Footwear, headgear, etc.  0.5 0.6 0.5 0.5 0.4 0.5 
13 Articles of stone, plaster, cement  1.3 1.2 1.1 0.9 1.2 1.0 
14 Precious stones and metals  0.6 0.5 0.5 0.4 0.2 0.2 
15 Base metals and articles thereof  6.9 7.2 6.4 5.1 7.3 6.2  
72 Iron and steel  2.3 2.4 2.2 1.6 2.1 2.0  
73 Articles of iron and steel  2.6 2.8 2.2 2.0 3.2 2.2 
16 Machinery, electrical equipment  18.4 17.9 15.8 14.6 14.6 14.6  
84 Machinery and mechanical 
appliances, parts thereof  11.1 10.1 8.7 8.0 8.2 7.7 
 
85 Electrical machineries and parts 
thereof  7.4 7.8 7.1 6.6 6.4 6.9 
 
8517 Telephone sets, including 
telephones for cellular networks (..)  2.2 2.4 2.7 2.8 2.4 2.7 
17 Transport equipment  12.1 10.0 14.6 24.1 6.8 13.0  
87 Vehicles other than railway, 
tramway, and parts thereof  10.2 7.0 8.2 5.1 4.5 4.8 
 
88 Aircraft, spacecraft, and parts 
thereof  1.1 2.0 4.5 18.2 1.8 7.7 
18 Precision equipment  1.9 1.9 1.6 1.1 3.1 3.3  
90 Optical, photo, technical, medical, 
(..) apparatus  1.6 1.7 1.4 0.9 3.0 3.1 
19 Arms and ammunition  0.0 0.2 0.0 0.1 0.1 0.1 
20 Miscellaneous manufactured articles  2.9 2.9 2.6 2.3 2.7 2.4  
94 Furniture; bedding, (..); lamps; 
illuminated signs; prefabricated 
buildings  0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 
21 Works of art, etc.  0.004  0.01 0.01 0.002  0.01 0.002  
Other   
0.5 0.6 0.4 0.5 2.6 0.2 
Source:  WTO Secretariat calculations, based on UN Comtrade database.  
  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 85 - 
 
 Table A1. 5 Merchandise imports by origin, 2016 -21 
  2016  2017  2018  2019  2020  2021  
Total imports (USD  million)  2,301.7  2,406.0  2,729.1  2,781.2  1,730.5  2,115.6   
(% of total imports)  
Americas  3.5 3.8 3.3 4.0 4.5 10.9 
 United  States  2.8 2.9 2.3 2.8 4.1 10.6 
 Other America  0.8 0.9 1.1 1.1 0.4 0.4 
Europe  4.5 4.0 4.7 18.0 3.5 3.7 
 EU-27 3.1 2.5 3.5 16.9 2.3 3.0 
     France  0.9 0.7 0.4 13.9 0.6 0.8 
     Italy 0.6 0.3 0.2 0.3 0.3 0.4 
     Germany  0.4 0.4 0.3 0.4 0.3 0.4 
     Netherlands  0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.3 0.3 
     Denmark  0.2 0.3 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.3 
     Belgium  0.1 0.3 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.3 
 EFTA 0.5 0.6 0.3 0.1 0.2 0.1 
 Other Europe  0.9 0.9 0.9 0.9 0.9 0.6 
     United  Kingdom  0.9 0.8 0.8 0.9 0.5 0.4 
CISa 0.0 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 
Africa  0.5 0.5 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 
Middle East  0.4 0.3 0.6 0.5 1.5 0.5 
     United Arab Emirates  0.2 0.2 0.4 0.3 1.4 0.4 
Asia 90.5 91.3 91.1 77.3 90.3 84.7 
 China  15.2 15.8 16.3 12.5 16.3 15.0 
 Japan  6.9 3.8 4.7 3.5 3.3 3.1 
 Other Asia  68.4 71.6 70.1 61.3 70.7 66.6 
     Singapore  15.4 19.2 20.9 18.2 18.2 17.1 
     Australia  17.4 16.6 15.7 14.2 17.8 16.9 
     New Zealand  17.5 17.3 14.6 12.3 16.4 14.8 
     Malaysia  2.4 2.1 2.5 1.8 3.1 3.0 
     India 2.2 2.4 2.4 2.5 2.7 2.7 
     Thailand  2.6 2.3 2.9 2.3 2.3 2.7 
     Chinese  Taipei  1.7 1.9 2.0 1.3 1.5 2.1 
     Hong Kong, China  2.6 2.7 2.7 1.5 1.6 1.8 
     Indonesia  1.1 1.1 1.0 1.0 1.4 1.6 
     Korea, Republic of  3.4 4.0 3.3 3.5 2.6 1.5 
     Viet Nam 0.8 0.9 1.1 1.2 1.1 1.0 
     Vanuatu  0.1 0.3 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.3 
Other  0.5 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 
a Commonwealth of Independent States, including certain associate and former member States.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat calculations, based on UN Comtrade database.  
  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 86 - 
 
 Table A2.1 Main trade -related legislation  
Area  Legislation  
Commerce  Companies Act 2015  
 Companies (Amendment) Act 2019  
 Companies (Amendment) Act 2020  
 Business Licensing (Repeal) Act 2020  
 Partnership Act 1910  
 Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission Act 2010  
 iTaukei Development Fund Act 1965  
 Public Enterprise Act 2019  
 Small and Micro Enterprise Development (Repeal) Act 2019  
Investment  Investment Act 2021  
 Foreign Investment (Amendment) Regulation 2013  
 Investment Fiji Act 2022  
 Investment Fiji Government Securities Act 1963  
 Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency Act 1989  
Land  Land Development Act 1961  
 Land Sales Act 1974  
 Land Transfer Act 1971  
 Land Use Act 2010  
 iTaukei Lands Act 1905  
 iTaukei Lands Amendment Act 2002  
 iTaukei Land Trust (Budget Amendment) Act 2021  
 iTakuei Land Trust (Amendment) Act 2019  
 State Land Act 1945  
 State Lands (Amendment) Act 2022  
Customs  Dumping and Countervailing Duties Act 1998  
 Excise Act 1986  
 Customs Act 1986  
 Fiji Revenue and Customs Services Act 1998  
 Fiji Revenue and Customs Services (Amendment) Act 2020  
 Fiji Revenue and Customs Services (Amendment) Act 2021  
 Customs (Budget Amendment) (No.  2) Act 2022  
 Customs Tariff Act 1986  
 Customs Tariff (Budget Amendment) (No.  3) Act 2022  
 Customs (Budget Amendment) Act 2021  
 Customs (Budget Amendment) Act 2020  
 Customs (COVID -19 Response) (Amendment) Act 2020  
 Customs (Budget Amendment) Act 2019  
 Customs Tariff (Budget Amendment) Act 2019  
 Value Added Tax (Budget Amendment) Act 2021  
Taxation  Income Tax Act 2018  
 Value Added Tax Act 1991  
 Services Turnover Tax (Repeal) Act 2012  
 Tax Administration Act 2009  
 Tax Administration (Budget Amendment) Act 2022  
 Tax Administration (Budget Amendment) Act 2020  
 Tax Administration (COVID -19 Response) (Amendment) Act 2020  
 Tax Administration (Budget Amendment) Act 2019  
 Tax Free Zones Act 1991  
 Income Tax (Budget Amendment) Act 2022  
 Income Tax (Amendment) (No. 3) Act 2020  
 Income Tax (Budget Amendment) Act 2019  
 Income Tax (COVID -19 Response) (Amendment) Act 2020  
 Value Added Tax (Budget Amendment) (No.  3) Act 2022  
 Value Added Tax (Budget Amendment) Act 2020  
 Value Added Tax (COVID -19 Response) (Amendment) Act 2020  
 Value Added Tax (Budget Amendment) Act 2019  
 Excise Act 1986  
 Excise (Budget Amendment) Act 2022  
 Excise (Budget Amendment) Act 2020  
 Excise (Budget Amendment) Act 2019  
 Excise (Amendment) (No.  2) Act 2019  
 Stamp Duties (COVID -19 Response) (Amendment) Act 2020  
 Stamp Duties (Repeal) Act 2020  
 Stamp Duties (Budget Amendment) Act 2019  
 Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (Amendment) Act 2021  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 87 - 
 
 Area  Legislation  
Standards  Illicit Drugs Control Act 2004  
 Illicit Drug Control (Budget Amendment) Act 2021  
 Food Safety Act 2003  
 Pesticides Act 1971  
 Medicinal Products Act 2011  
 Medicinal Products (Budget Amendment) Act 2022  
 National and Trade Measurement Act 1989  
 Trade Standards and Quality Act 1992  
 Trade Standards and Quality Control Act 1992  
 Disposal of Uncollected Goods Act 1994  
 Second Hand Dealers Act 1971  
 Dumping and Countervailing Duties Act 1998  
 Information Act 2018  
Quarantine and SPS  Biosecurity Act 2008  
 Quarantine Act 1964  
 Food Safety Act 2003  
 Biosecurity (Budget Amendment) Act 2021  
Competition  Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission Act 2010  
 Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (Budget Amendment) Act 
2019 
 Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (Budget Amendment) Act 
2020 
 Brands Act 1928  
 Consumer Council of Fiji Act 1976  
 Sale of Goods Act 1979  
Government procurement  Procurement Regulations 2010  
Intellectual property  Copyright Act 1999  
 Merchandise Marks Act  
 Patents Act 1879  
 United  Kingdom Designs (Protection) Act 1963  
 Trade -Marks Act 1933  
 Patents Act 2021  
 Designs Act 2021  
Agriculture  Agricultural Marketing Authority Act 2004  
 Banana Export and Marketing Act  
 Coconut Industry Development Act 2010  
 Co-operative Dairy Companies Act  
 Copra Industry Loans Act  
 Dairies Act  
 Fiji Sugar Corporation (Repeal) Act 2005  
 Fruit Export and Marketing Act  
 Fruit Export and Marketing (Budget Amendment) Act 2021  
 Ginger Council of Fiji Act 1996  
 Liquor Act 2006 
 Liquor (Amendment) Act 2022  
 Meat Industry Act 1969  
 Sugar Industry Act  
 Tobacco Control Act 2010  
 Tobacco Control (Amendment) Act 2022  
 Goats (Ear Marks) Act 1955  
 Mahogany Industry (Licensing and Branding) Act 2011  
 Mahogany Industry Development Act 2010  
Forestry  Forest Act 1992  
 Regulation of Ownership (Fiji Forest Industries Limited) Act 2011  
Fisheries  Fisheries Act 1941  
 Marine Spaces Act 1977  
 Offshore Fisheries Management Act 2012  
 Offshore Fisheries Management (Budget Amendment) Act 2021  
 Fisheries (Budget Amendment) Act 2022  
Mining  Fiji National Petroleum Company Limited Decree 1991  
 Mining Act 1965  
 Petroleum Act 1938  
 Petroleum (Exploration and Exploitation) Act  
 Petroleum (Exploration and Exploitation) (Amendment) Act 1995  
Gold Gold Dealers Act 1965  
Scrap metal  Scrap Metal Trade Act 2011  
Energy  Electricity Act 2017  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 88 - 
 
 Area  Legislation  
Environment  Ozone Depleting Substances Act 1998 
 Ozone Depleting Substances (Amendment) Act 2020  
 Endangered and Protected Species Act 2002  
 Environment Management Act 2005  
 Environment Management (Budget Amendment) Act  
 Environment Management (Amendment) Act 2020  
 Environment and Climate Adoption Levy Act 2015  
 Environment and Climate Adoption Levy (Revised Budget Amendment) Act 
2022 
 Environment and Climate Adaptation Levy (Budget Amendment) Act 2019  
 Environment and Climate Adaptation Levy (Budget Amendment) Act 2020  
 Climate Change Act 2021  
Financial services  Banking Act 1995  
 Bankruptcy Act  
 Bills of Exchange Act 1891  
 Insurance Act 1998  
 Insurance Law Reform Act 1996  
 Reserve Bank of Fiji Act 1983  
 Consumer Credit Act 1999  
 Exchange Control Act  
 Fiji Development Bank Act 1966  
 Marine Insurance Act  
 Insurance (Budget Amendment) Act 2022  
 Financial Transactions Reporting Act 200  
 Financial Management Act 2004  
 Financial Management (Budget Amendment) Act 2019  
 Financial Management (Revised Budget Amendment) Act 2022  
 Electronic Transactions Act 2008  
 National Payment System Act 2021  
Telecommunications  Media Industry Development (Budget Amendment) Act 2022  
 Telecommunications (Amendment) (No.  2) Act 2020  
 Telecommunications (Budget Amendment) Act 2022  
 Television (Amendment) Act 2020  
Audiovisual  Film Fiji Act 2002  
 Television and Online Streaming Act 1992  
 Television (Amendment) Act 2020  
 Television (Cross -Carriage of Designated Events) (Repeal) Act 2022  
 Media Industry Development Act 2010  
 Media Industry Development (Budget Amendment) Act 2022  
 Cinematography Films Act 1971  
Maritime transport  Maritime Transport Act 2013  
 Maritime Transport (Amendment) Act 2019  
 Maritime Transport (Budget Amendment) Act 2021  
 Sea Carriage of Goods Act 1926  
Air transport  Civil Aviation Act  
 Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji Act  
 Civil Aviation Reform Act 1999  
 Airport Departure Tax (Revised Budget Amendment) Act 2022  
Road transport  Land Transport Act 1998  
 Land Transport Act (Revised Budget Amendment) Act 2022  
 Land Transport (Amendment) Act 2019  
 Fiji Roads Authority Act 2012  
Tourism  Tourism Fiji Act 2004  
 Income Tax (Hotel Incentives Amendment) Act 2007  
 Hotels and Guest Houses (Amendment) Act 2021  
Health  Pharmacy Profession Act 2011  
 Pharmacy Profession (Amendment) Act 2020  
 Medical and Dental Practitioners Act 2010  
 Medical and Dental Practitioner (Revised Budget Amendment) Act 2022  
 Medical Products Act 2011  
 Medical Products Act (Budget Amendment) (No.  2) Act 2021  
Source:  Laws of Fiji . Viewed at: https://www.laws.gov.fj/ ; and information provided by the authorities.  
  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 89 - 
 
 Table A3. 1 Fiji's applied MFN tariff summary, 2022  
 Number  
of lines  Average  
(%) Range  
(%) Standard  
deviation  Duty 
free 
(%) Share 
of 
bound 
rates  
Total  6,521  6.2 (7.7)  0-32 (0 -1,110.2)  7.5 (28.6)  26.2 47.5 
HS 01 -24 1,064  9.6 (17.6)  0-32 (0 -1,110.2)  8.4 (67.3)  12.6 75.3 
HS 25 -97 5,457  5.5 (5.7)  0-32 (0 -290.3)  7.2 (8.8)  28.8 42.1 
By WTO category  
WTO agricultural products  867 7.5 (17.5)  0-32 (0 -1,110.2)  8.5 (74.7)  18.3 99.9 
  Animals and products thereof  121 12.3 0-32 12.0 9.1 100.0  
  Dairy products  39 5.3 0-15 2.5 5.1 100.0  
  Fruit, vegetables, and plants  224 4.5 0-32 4.9 36.2 100.0  
  Coffee and tea  28 6.1 0-15 4.5 14.3 100.0  
  Cereals and preparations  103 9.2 (11.4)  0-32 (0 -208.2)  9.7 (21.9)  8.7 100.0  
Oils seeds, fats, oil and their 
products  94 7.4 0-32 6.0 18.1 98.9 
  Sugars and confection ery 17 11.4 5-32 11.5 0.0 100.0  
  Beverages, spirits and tobacco  97 19.8 (114.6)  5-32 (5 -1,110.2)  11.4 (215.5)  0.0 100.0  
  Cotton  5 0.0 0-0 0 100.0  100.0  
  Other agricultural products, n.e.s.  139 4.1 0-15 2.4 21.6 100.0  
WTO non -agricultural products  5,654  6.0 (6.2)  0-32 (0 -290.3)  7.4 (8.8)  27.4 39.5 
  Fish & fishery products  262 14.2 5-32 4.4 0.0 1.1 
  Minerals & metals  1,025  6.4 0-32 (0 -86.3)  6.2 (6.6)  3.4 45.7 
  Chemicals & photographic 
supplies  1,066  8.3 (8.5)  0-32 (0 -145.9)  9.1 (10.2)  5.7 6.5 
  Wood, pulp, paper & furniture  374 9.2 0-32 9.7 3.2 0.8 
  Textiles  632 2.6 0-32 4.7 59.2 78.0 
  Clothing  243 8.5 0-15 5.9 16.5 100.0  
  Leather, rubber, footwear & travel 
goods  184 7.2 (8.6)  0-32 (0 -290.3)  5.9 (21.6)  3.3 0.0 
  Non-electric machinery  625 0.2 0-5 0.9 96.6 99.4 
  Electric machinery  310 4.4 0-32 3.8 22.3 99.4 
  Transport equipment  448 5.3 (6.2)  0-32 (0 -73.8)  7.2 (9.9)  44.0 0.0 
  Non-agricultural products, n.e.s.  452 5.1 0-32 7.2 33.0 5.5 
  Petroleum  33 5.0 (9.4)  5-5 (0.7 -53.7)  0.0 (10.3)  0.0 0.0 
By ISIC sector  
ISIC 1 - Agriculture, hunting & 
fishing  416 6.2 0-32 6.0 26.0 71.9 
  ISIC 2 - Mining  100 5.0 5-5 (2.7 -5) 0.0 (0.2)  0.0 0.0 
  ISIC 3 - Manufacturing  6,004  6.2 (7.8)  0-32 (0 -1,110.2)  7.7 (29.7)  26.6 46.1 
Manuf. excluding food 
processing  5,309  5.6 (5.8)  0-32 (0 -290.3)  7.3 (8.9)  29.4 43.1 
  ISIC 4 - Electrical energy  1 5.0 5-5 0.0 0.0 0.0 
By stage of processing        
  First stage of processing  799 6.4 0-32 5.5 20.5 52.1 
  Semi-processed products  2,064  7.0 (7.2)  0-32 (0 -145.9)  8.5 (9.4)  17.6 34.2 
  Fully processed products  3,658  5.6 (8.2)  0-32 (0 -1,100.2)  7.3 (37.4)  32.2 53.4 
By HS section        
 01 Live animals & products  392 13.1 0-32 7.5 3.8 42.6 
 02 Vegetable products  324 3.9 0-15 3.3 30.6 100.0  
 03 Fats & oils  59 8.8 0-32 7.3 28.8 94.9 
04 Prepared food, beverages & 
tobacco  289 11.8 (42.3)  0-32 (0 -1,100.2)  10.5 (128.1)  1.0 79.9 
 05 Mineral products  180 5.2 (5.9)  0-15 (0 -53.7)  1.6 (4.7)  0.6 0.0 
 06 Chemicals & products thereof  958 7.5 0-32 (0 -51.4)  8.6 (8.7)  9.1 13.0 
07 Plastics, rubber, & articles 
thereof  278 9.6 (11.1)  0-32 (0 -290.3)  9.6 (21.2)  1.1 0.0 
 08 Raw hides & skins, leather  78 5.5 5-32 3.2 0.0 17.9 
 09 Wood & articles of wood  174 7.9 5-32 8.3 0.0 0.0 
10 Pulp of wood, paper & 
paperboard  172 10.9 0-32 10.9 5.2 0.0 
 11 Textiles & textile articles  856 3.9 0-32 5.4 50.9 88.6 
 12 Footwear, headgear, etc.  48 8.5 0-15 5.4 8.3 0.0 
13 Articles of stone, plaster, 
cement  170 5.3 5-15 1.7 0.0 0.0 
14 Precious stones & metals, 
pearls  59 5.8 5-15 2.8 0.0 0.0 
 15 Base metals & articles thereof  650 7.1 (7.2)  0-32 (0 -86.3)  7.4 (8.0)  1.5 70.9 
16 Machinery, electrical 
equipment, etc.  938 1.6 0-32 3.1 71.5 99.8 WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 90 - 
 
  Number  
of lines  Average  
(%) Range  
(%) Standard  
deviation  Duty 
free 
(%) Share 
of 
bound 
rates  
 17 Transport equipment  460 5.3 (6.2)  0-32 (0 -73.8)  7.2 (9.9) 44.1 0.0 
 18 Precision equipment  236 2.7 0-5 2.5 46.2 0.0 
 19 Arms & ammunition  20 28.8 0-32 9.6 10.0 0.0 
20 Miscellaneous manufactured 
articles  161 5.6 0-32 6.7 23.0 2.5 
 21 Works of art, etc.  19 5.0 5-5 0.0 0.0 0.0 
Note:  Excluding specific rates and including the ad valorem part of alternate rates. Figures in brackets 
include AVEs, as available. Calculations for AVEs are based on 2020 import data taken from 
UN Comtrade.   
Source:  WTO Secretariat calculations, based on infor mation  provided by the FRCS . 
  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 91 - 
 
 Table A3. 2 Applied MFN rate exceeding bound rate, 2022  
HS Code  Applied MFN 2022  AVEa  Bound rate  AVEa 
21069032  FJD 56.71 per  litre 38.5%  FJD 15 per  litre 10.2%  
21069039  FJD 99.30 per  litre alcohol  208.2%  FJD 25 per  litre of 
alcohol  52.4%  
22021020  32% or FJD  2 per litre whichever is 
greater  46.1%  40%  
22030010  FJD 2.66 per  litre 74.6%  70%  
22030090  FJD 3.62 per  litre 144.3%  70%  
22042190  FJD 5.02 per  litre 78.4%  40%  
22042990  FJD 5.02 per  litre 63.9%  40%  
22060019  FJD 3.46 per  litre 78.1%  70%  
22060022  FJD 3.46 per  litre 83.7%  40%  
22060029  FJD 5.52 per  litre 273.6%  40%  
22060099  FJD 5.02 per  litre 74.3%  40%  
22071000  FJD 99.30 per  litre of alcohol  1110.2%  FJD 25 per  litre of 
alcohol  279.5%  
22072010  FJD 56.71 per  litre 746.3%  FJD 15 per  litre 197.4%  
22072090  FJD 99.30 per  litre of alcohol  541.2%  FJD 25 per  litre of 
alcohol  136.3%  
22082020  FJD 56.71 per  litre 130.7%  FJD 15 per  litre 34.6%  
22082090  FJD 99.30 per  litre of alcohol  .. FJD 25 per  litre of 
alcohol  .. 
22083010  FJD 2.24 per  litre 76.6%  70%  
22083020  FJD 56.71 per  litre 52.2%  FJD 15 per  litre 13.8%  
22083090  FJD 99.30 per  litre of alcohol  61.1%  FJD 25 per  litre of 
alcohol  15.4%  
22084020  FJD 56.71 per litre 267.7%  FJD 15 per  litre 70.8%  
22084090  FJD 99.30 per  litre of alcohol  96.8%  FJD 25 per  litre of 
alcohol  24.4%  
22085020  FJD 56.71 per  litre 281.2%  FJD 15 per  litre 74.4%  
22085090  FJD 99.30 per  litre of alcohol  361.8%  FJD 25 per  litre of 
alcohol  91.1%  
22086020  FJD 56.71 per  litre 268.8%  FJD 15 per  litre 71.1%  
22086090  FJD 99.30 per  litre of alcohol  .. FJD 25 per  litre of 
alcohol  .. 
22087012  FJD 56.71 per  litre 222.2%  FJD 15 per  litre 58.8%  
22087019  FJD 99.30 per  litre of alcohol  110.8%  FJD 25 per  litre of 
alcohol  27.9%  
22087022  FJD 56.71 per  litre 34.4%  FJD 15 per  litre 9.1%  
22087029  FJD 99.30 per  litre of alcohol  .. FJD 25 per  litre of 
alcohol  .. 
22089021  FJD 56.71 per  litre .. FJD 15 per  litre .. 
22089029  FJD 56.71 per  litre 145.7%  FJD 15 per  litre 38.6%  
22089091  FJD 99.30 per  litre of alcohol  688.6%  FJD 25 per  litre of 
alcohol  173.4%  
22089099  FJD 99.30 per  litre of alcohol  62.0%  FJD 25 per  litre of 
alcohol  15.6%  
24011000  FJD 347.89 per kg  .. FJD 40 per kg  .. 
24012000  FJD 347.89 per kg  .. FJD 40 per kg  .. 
24013000  FJD 347.89 per kg  .. FJD 40 per kg  .. 
24021000  FJD 223.97 per kg  13.3%  FJD 30 per kg  1.8%  
24029010  FJD 223.97 per kg  .. FJD 30 per kg  .. 
24031100  FJD 223.97 per kg  .. FJD 30 per kg  .. 
24031900  FJD 223.97 per kg  570.8%  FJD 30 per kg  76.5%  
24039990  FJD 194.76 per kg  1042.6%  FJD 30 per kg  160.6%  
.. Not available.  
a AVE calculated using 2020 import value and volume provided by UN Comtrade.  
Source:  WTO Secretariat calculations, based on information provided by  the FRCS  and by the authorities.  
  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 92 - 
 
 Table A3. 3 Tax and customs incentives  
Tax and customs incentives  
1. 2009 -2023 INVESTMENT PACKAGE  
Corporate tax rate reduction  
Year Resident companies  Non-resident companies  
2009 From 31% to 29%  From 31% to 29%  
2010 From 29% to 28%  From 29% to 28%  
2011 28% 28% 
2012 From 28% to 20%  From 28% to 20%  
2013 – Current (2023)  20% 20% 
The corporate tax rate applicable to an approved global or regional headquarters is increased from 17% to 20% 
(effective tax year 2023).  
 
The 10% reduced rate of corporate tax available to companies listed on the SPSE will only be available for 
seven  years. Companies that have enjoyed for seven  years or more will now pay the corporate tax at the rate of 
20% (effective tax year 2023).  
The rates of Income Tax and Social Responsibility Tax for Resident Individuals are:  
Chargeable income 
(FJD) Income Tax ( FJD) Social Responsibility Tax ( FJD) 
0-30,000  Nil Nil 
30,001 -50,000  18% of excess over FJD  30,000  Nil 
50,001 -270,000  FJD 3,600 + 20% of excess over  
FJD 50,000  Nil 
270,001 -300,000  FJD 47,600 + 20% of excess over  
FJD 270,000  18% of excess over FJD  270,000  
300,001 -350,000  FJD 53,600 + 20% of excess over  
FJD 300,000  FJD 5,400 + 19% of excess over FJD  300,000  
350,001 -400,000  FJD 63,600 + 20% of excess over  
FJD 350,000  FJD 14,900 + 20% of excess over  
FJD 350,000  
400,001 -450,000  FJD 73,600 + 20% of excess over  
FJD 400,000  FJD 24,900 + 21% of excess over  
FJD 400,000  
450,001 -500,000  FJD 83,600 + 20% of excess over  
FJD 450,000  FJD 35,400 + 22% of excess over  
FJD 450,000  
500,001 -1,000,000  FJD 93,600 + 20% of excess over  
FJD 500,000  FJD 46,400 + 23% of excess over  
FJD 500,000  
1,000,001+  FJD 193,600 + 20% of excess over 
FJD 1,000,000  FJD 161,400 + % of excess over  
FJD 1,000,000  
The rates of Income Tax and Social Responsibility Tax for non -Resident Individuals are:  
Chargeable income 
(FJD) Income Tax ( FJD) Social Responsibility Tax ( FJD) 
0-30,000  20% of excess over FJD  0 Nil 
30,001 -50,000  FJD 6,000 + 20% of excess over  
FJD 30,000  Nil 
50,001 -270,000  FJD 10,000 + 20% of excess over  
FJD 50,000  Nil  
270,001 -300,000  FJD 54,000 + 20% of excess over  
FJD 270,000  18% of excess over FJD  270,000  
300,001 -350,000  FJD 60,000 + 20% of excess over  
FJD 300,000  FJD 5,400 + 19% of excess over FJD  300,000  
350,001 -400,000  FJD 70,000 + 20% of excess over  
FJD 350,000  FJD 14,900 + 20% of excess over  
FJD 350,000  
400,001 -450,000  FJD 80,000+ 20% of excess over  
FJD 400,000  FJD 24,900 + 21% of excess over  
FJD 400,000  
450,001 -500,000  FJD 90,000+ 20% of excess over  
FJD 450,000  FJD 35,400 + 22% of excess over  
FJD 450,000  
500,001 -1,000,000  FJD 100,000 + 20% of excess over 
FJD 500,000  FJD 46,400 + 23% of excess over  
FJD 500,000  
1,000,001+  FJD 200,000 + 20% of excess over  FJD 161,400 + 24% of excess over  
FJD 1,000,000  
Investment allowance  
Investment allowance (excluding cost of labour) of 40% for extension and renovation expenses with a minimum 
qualifying capital expenditure of FJD  50,000. This is only available to existing businesses in Vanua Levu.  
Accelerated depreciation  
Accelerated depreciation for all commercial buildings can be written off subject to the applicable rates.  
Provisional approval is required to qualify for the incentive.  
Export income deduction  
"Export income" means net profits derived by a taxpayer from the business of exporting goods and services but 
excludes re -exports. Deduction shown below:  
Year of assessment  Percentage of export income to be deducted  
2011 50% 
2012 40% 
2013 40% 
2014 40% 
2015 50% WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 93 - 
 
 Tax and customs incentives  
2016 50% 
2017 50% 
2018 50% 
2019 50% 
2020 60% 
2021 60% 
2022 60% 
2023-2024 Agriculture, fisheries or forestry: 90%  
Any other industry: 60%  
Loss carried forward  
Loss carried forward can be claimed up to eight years (if the loss was incurred on or after 1  January  2019). Prior 
to year 2019, the loss carry -forward was up  to four years.  
Production inputs  
All goods used as raw materials in the manufacture of approved goods not available locally will attract zero fiscal 
duty applicable  VAT, and all raw material used for manufacturing by companies outside of Viti Levu will attract 
zero fiscal duty + zero import excise + applicable VAT ( zero, 9%, and 15%).  
 
All goods  approved for assembling, mixing , or blending for the processing of finished goods (excluding alcoholic 
beverages under Chapter 22 and motor vehicles under Chapter 87 will attract 3% fiscal duty + zero free excise 
and applicable VAT ). 
Capital items  
Duty rates on capital items (which ref er to machinery used for converting/processing raw materials) will attract 
zero fiscal duty + applicable  VAT.  
2. HOTEL INDUSTRY INCENTIVES  
Standard allowance  
Investment allowance (in addition to ordinary depreciation) of 50% of total capital expenditure is allowed as a 
deduction provided there is no shift of tax revenue to other countries.  
Applicable to building of new hotels including renovations or refurbishments or extensions of existing hotels or 
integrated tourism development.  
Investment allowance can only be written  off against the income of the hotel business or income from the hotel 
premises.  
Losses carry forward to next successive fiscal years of income of the hotel owner until the amount is wholly set 
off. 
Recipients of the provisiona l approval for standard allowance shall complete construction of the project within 
24 months of the provisional approval date.  
New Short Life Investment Package  
Short Life Investment is granted for building of a new hotel or integrated tourism development or to undertake 
refurbishment and renovation of an existing hotel. Tax holiday is subject to the level of capital investments, 
ranging from 5 years to 20 years, with minimum  investment of FJD 250,000.  
Import duty exemption on all  capital equipment, plant, and machinery, including building materials, furnishings 
and fittings, room amenities, kitchen and dining room equipment and utensils , and speciali zed water sports 
equipment , but does not include motor vehicles . 
Investors need to meet the qualifying criteria, such as obtain provisional approval in order to benefit from this 
incentive.  
Backpacker operations  
The income of any taxpayer who is a Fiji national , with an annual gr oss turnover not exceeding FJD 1,000,000, is 
exempt income.  
3. AUDIO VISUAL  INCENTIVES  
Income tax deductions  
150% deduction for capital expenditure on an F1 audio visual  production.  
125% deduction for capital expenditure on an F2 audio visual  production.  
Levels of expenditure in Fiji for an audio visual  production for F1 and F2 status should not be less than:  
- 40% for a large format film, a feature film , or broadcast television programmes;  
- 50% for a direct to video programme or video disk progra mme; and  
- 55% for an audio recording.  
Income tax exemption  
Net income from an F1 production is exempt until the taxpayer has received a 60% return on capital expended. 
Thereafter, net income will be fully taxed at the marginal rate.  
Net income from an F2 production is exempt until the taxpayer has received a 50% return on capital expended. 
Thereafter, net income will be fully taxed at the marginal rate.  
Studio City Zone concessions  
Any sole proprietor, partnership , or company that carries on a product ion activity (the production of, distribution 
of or supply of services to audio visual  productions) may qualify for an operating licence in the Studio City Zone 
and be entitled to an exemption from tax on the income from the production activity carried on i n the Zone.  
Tax-free status for "permanent residents" of the Studio City Zone on income derived as earnings from audio visual  
productions.  
For residence in the Zone to be approved, in the case of citizens, the individual must be:  
- resident in the Zone for at least 183 days;  
- have pre -tax audio visual  earnings in excess of FJD  100,000;  
- have fixed assets in the Zone in excess of FJD  250,000; and  
- maintain a primary place of residence in the Studio City Zone.  
For residence in the Zone to be approved, in the case of non -citizens (or a citizen who derives a 
minimum of 80% of audio visual  earnings from outside Fiji), the individual must be:  
- resident in the Zone for at least 60 days;  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 94 - 
 
 Tax and customs incentives  
- net annual audiovisual earnings in excess of FJD100,000 in the year of assessment ; 
- have fixed assets in the Zone in excess of FJD  250,000; and  
- maintain a permanent place of residence in the Studio City Zone.  
Film tax rebate  
Fiji Film Tax Rebate  
Rebate amount  20% tax rebate or credit on production costs spent in Fiji: paragraph 68(1)  
Eligibility  Film and television productions, as per existing Sixth Schedule: paragraph 69  
Minimum spend 
in country  Minimum spend in Fiji FJD  250,000 for feature films and broadcast television; and FJD  50,000 
for production intended as an advertising programme or commercial in at least one significant 
international market: paragraph 69(e)  
Maximum  rebate  FJD 4 million , so even if more than FJD  20 million  spent in Fiji the maximum rebate is still 
FJD 20 million : paragraph 69(2)  
Exclusions  Where a producer has chosen to access the film tax rebate, the producer will not be able to 
obtain any other tax concessions under Part 3 of Sixth Schedule: paragraph 67 (2). 
Additional incentives (allowable expenditures):  
Allowable expenditure incurred for services rendered by the producers (producer's fees) – provided that such 
expenditure shall not exceed 10% of the total Fiji expenditure. Producers are not restricted  to remain in Fiji 
throughout the production of the film.  
75% of the expenditure incurred to purchase costumes, make -up, and set design properties not available in Fiji 
that will be used in relation to the film production in Fiji provided that any such costumes, make -up, and set 
design properties shall be left in Fiji at the end of the production.  
Expenditure incurred to pu rchase the writer's story and rights for the production of the film provided that the 
producer submits the following documentary evidence:  
- Notarized legal contract with the writer which is registered in Fiji with the Registrar of Deeds upon 
payment of the appropriate stamp duty;  
- Evidence of payment made directly into the writer's bank account from the Fiji bank account; and  
- Receipt of acknowledgement of payment received.  
 
Approved post -production expenditure on the film paid from a Fiji bank account to the extent that it is incurred or 
reasonably attributable to approved post -production services in relation to the completing of the film made in Fiji. 
The maximum payable in rebate shall be granted upon the production of documentary evidence of the 
expenditure . Rebate is around 2% -2.5% of production budget.  
Expenditures incurred on hiring of cameras and filming equipment from outside Fiji, where such cameras and 
filming equipment are not available in Fiji.  
Additional requirements  
Companies should engage audio visual agents.  
Fiji as a location needs to be accredited and acknowledged in the film's credits and other accreditation as 
stipulated by Film Fiji in its approval letter.  
4. AGRICULTURAL INCENTIVES  
Commercial agriculture and agro -processing  
This incentive is specifica lly designed to assist large -scale cultivation of agricultural produce or livestock farming 
and value addition activities that transform agricultural products or commodities into different forms for sale 
purposes. Minimum capital investment required is FJD  100,000 whil e tax holidays range from 5 years to 20  years 
and are subject to the level of capital investment. Investors need to meet the qualifying criteria and the project 
(established on or after 1  August  2021) be completed within 2 years from the date of provisional approval 
granted.  
 
The importation of all agricultu ral items will be subject to zero duty.  
Biofuel production  
The income of a person derived from a new activity in processing agricultural commodities into bio -fuels as 
approved by the CEO from 1  January  2009 to 31  December  2028 and employing 20 local empl oyees or more for 
each year for the duration of the income tax exemption, shall be exempt from tax as follows:  
• Capital investment from FJD  250,000 to FJD  1,000,000 for a period of 5 conservative fiscal years; or  
• Capital investment from FJD  1,000,001 to FJD  2,000,000 for a period of 7 conservative fiscal years; or  
• Capital investment above FJD  2,000,001 for a period of 13 consecutive fiscal years.  
Duty-free importation of plant, machinery , and equipment for initial establishment of the factory.  
Duty-free importation of chemical required for biofuel production.  
5. SMALL AND MICRO ENTERPRISES  
The income of prescribed small and micro enterprises engaged in agriculture, fisheries, or tourism that have a 
gross turnover not exceeding FJD  500,000 is exempt income.  
6. TAX FREE REGION (TFR) INCENTIVES  
TFR incentives  
Who will qualify for this incentive?  
This incentive is available to a newly incorporated entity engaged in a business established in the following areas:  
- Vanua Levu includ ing Taveuni, Rabi, Kioa , and other islands generally included for the Government's 
administrative purposes as being in the Northern Division  
- Rotuma  
- Kadavu  
- Levuka  
- Lomaiviti  
- Lau 
- Nausori -Lautoka region (from Nausori Airport side of the Rewa River (excluding township boundary) to the 
Ba side of the Matawalu River)  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 95 - 
 
 Tax and customs incentives  
- Naboro – for companies that are engaged in waste management business only  
- Tamavua ICT Park – for companies that are engaged in ICT business as defined in the Income Tax (Tax 
Free Region Incentives) Regulations 2016  
Any company may apply to the Minister for Finance  using a prescribed form (Form 6) for an operating licence.  
Criteria for grant of licence  
The company is a newly incorporated entity engaged in a business.  
The minimum initial level of investment should be FJD  250,000 or the minimum initial level of investment for the  
Tamavua ICT Park should be FJD  10,000,000.   
Tax exemptions available  
The income of any new activity approved and established between 1  January  2010 to 31  December  2018 shall be 
exempt from tax as follows:  
- capital investment from FJD  250,000 to FJD  1,000,000, for a period of 5 consecutive fiscal years; or  
- capital investment from FJD  1,000,000 to FJD  2,000,000, for a period of 7 consecutive fiscal years; or  
- capital investment above FJD  2,000,000 for a period of 13 consecutive fiscal yea rs. 
Duty exemption  
Import duty exemption on the importation of raw materials, machinery , and equipment (including parts and 
materials) insofar as they are required for the establishment of the business in the Tax Free Region.  
Other benefits under the TFR 
Additional 5 years of income tax exemption is available to any company granted a licence and having indigenous 
landowner equity of at least 25%.  
Additional 7 years of income tax exemption is available to any hotel developer granted a licence and havin g 
indigenous landowner equity of at least 25%.  
7. INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY (ICT) INCENTIVES  
ICT incentive s include those services provided by a person by way of software development, call centres, 
customer contact centres, engineering and design, research and development, animation and content creation, 
distance learning, market research, travel services, fina nce and accounting services, human resource services, 
legal services, compliance and risk services , or other administrative services (e.g. purchasing, etc.), but does not 
include an Internet cafe or any retail or wholesale of information technology product s or the repair, sale , or 
service of any such products.  
Various ICT -related incentives available are as follows:  
- ICT Infrastructure Investment Incentive  – the income of an approved company engaged in the 
establishment, development , or construction of ICT i nfrastructure approved and established on or after 
1 August  2021 shall be exempt from tax, based on the capital investment (minimum requirement is 
FJD 2,000,000 ). 
- New ICT operator – the income of any new operator who is granted a licen ce after 1  January  2009 is 
exempt from tax for a period of 20 years.  
- Research and Development – a 250% tax deduction is applicable on any expenditure incurred by an 
eligible ICT company investing in Research and Development.  
- ICT Accredited Training Institutions – an ICT training institution is allowed a deduction of 150% for the 
amount of expenses incurred. The income of an any new operator setting up an internationally 
accredited ICT training institution will be exempt from tax for a period of 13 years.  
- Application D esign and Software Development – A person is allowed a deduction for 150% of the amount 
of expenses incurred in the ICT start-ups involved in application design or software development. The 
income will be exempted from tax for a period of 13 years.  
Duty co ncessions on the importation of capital goods are provided, where applicable.  
8. MANUFACTURERS INCENTIVES  
Food processing & forestry  
100% of the amount of investment as a deduction for investing in food processing as well as forestry. 
Re-investment will also be allowed for expansion purposes. In order to qualify, the investor should utilize 50% of 
local produce in its production process.  
Renewable energy projects and power co generation  
5-year tax holiday is available to a taxpayer undert aking a new activity in renewable energy projects and power 
cogeneration  as approved by the CEO.  
A company is allowed a deduction for 250% of the amount of expenses incurred for research and development of 
ICT and renewable energy industries.  
In accordance  to Part of the Income Tax Regulations, Accelerated Allowance For Renewable  – a taxpayer may 
apply to claim 100% write -off in the tax year of expenditure in respect of the capital expenditure incurred for the 
installation of a renewable energy plant or water storage facility.  
 
Duty-free importation of renewable energy goods is also available under Concession Code 264 of the Customs 
Tariff Act. 
9. OTHER INCENTIVES  
Shipping companies – maritime shipping  
The income of a shipping company derived from servicing the Rotuma and Lau Group, as approved by the CEO, is 
exempt income for a period of 7 consecutive tax years.  
Unit trust companies – withholding tax and capital gains tax waiver  
Withholding taxes and capital gains taxes on interest income distrib ution to investors of the unit trusts will be 
waived.  
Fiji My Second Home Programme  
This Programme is open to citizens of other countries recognized by Fiji in the "Fiji My Second Home Programme" 
as administered by the Department of Immigration.  
Interest income is exempt from tax under the following criteria:  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 96 - 
 
 Tax and customs incentives  
-  Age below 50 years old: Minimum deposit of FJD  150,000 and maintain the deposit in Fiji for a minimum 
of 2 years.  
- Age 50 years and above: Minimum deposit of FJD  100,000 and maintain the deposit in Fiji for a minimum 
of 2 years.  
To qualify , the applicant must maintain a minimum balance of FJD  50,000 from the third year onwards and 
throughout the entire stay in Fiji.  
Foreign Currency Account Scheme  
Interest income is exempt from tax which accrues to or in favour of non -residents (including former Fiji residents) 
who hold funds in Fiji commercial bank accounts under the following criteria:  
-  For foreign currency accounts, interest income for deposit above the equivalen t of FJD  150,000; and 
-  For Fiji dollar accounts, any amount of interest income.  
Other incentives  
Employment Taxation Scheme  
a) First-time employees  
A person carrying on business in Fiji is allowed a deduction for 300% of the amount of any salary or wages paid to 
a qualifying employee between 1  August  2016 and 31  December  2024. 
b) Work placements  
A person is allowed a deduction of 300% of the amount of any salary or wages paid to a student for employment 
before the student 's graduation where the employment forms part of the student 's course requirements of a 
higher education institution.  
c) Apprenticeship  
A person is allowed a deduction for 300% of the amount of any salary or wages paid to a student for employment 
of the student under an apprenticesh ip before the student 's graduation where the apprenticeship forms part of the 
student 's course requirements of a higher education institution.  
d) Part-time workers  
A person is allowed a deduction for 300% of the amount of any salary or wages paid to a student  for employment 
of the student in an area related to the student 's area of study for a period not exceeding 3 months in a 12 -month 
period . 
e)  Persons with disabilities  
A person is allowed a deduction of 400% of the amount of any salary or wages paid to a per son with a disability 
for a consecutive period of 3 years, provided that if the employee is unfairly dismissed, any deduction allowed will 
be recouped.  
f) Employee development  
A person is allowed a deduction for 150% of the amount paid by the person for an em ployee 's education fees to 
study during the employee 's employment, provided that the employee is required to work for the person for a 
minimum of one year upon the completion of the employee 's study.  
A person is allowed a deduction of 150% of the amount pa id for training the person 's employee, provided that the 
training is conducted through a training provider approved by the CEO.  
g) Employees affected by COVID -19 
A person is allowed a deduction for 300% of the amount of salary or wages paid to an employee if the employee : 
i) has tested positive for COVID -19 or is a primary or secondary contact of a person who has tested positive for 
COVID -19; and  
ii) is required by the Ministry of Health and Medical Services to be quarantined.  
Donation of new computers, laptops and tablets – 150% and 200% tax deductions for donation of 
computers to schools registered with the Ministry of Education will be available with the following features:  
- 200% tax deduction relates to donation to schools in  rural areas;  
- 150% tax deduction relates to donation to schools in urban areas;  and 
- Donations to be between FJD  10,000 to FJD  100,000.  
Voluntary contribution for disaster relief – 200% tax deduction for voluntary contribution of cash donation by 
businesses towards a Disaster Relief Fund. The threshold will range from a minimum contribution of FJD  10,000.  
Sports sponsorship – A business is allowed a deduction for 150% of the full amount of a cash donation made in 
a tax year to a sporting entity r ecognized by the Fiji National Sports Commission.  
Local artists  – A hotel or resort carrying on business in Fiji is allowed a deduction for 150% of the amount of any 
salary or wages paid for the employment of a local artist such as craftsperson, dancer , or musician.  
Sponsorship of hiring of international coaches – 150% tax deduction for sponsorship between FJD  100,000 
and FJD  200,000 towards the hiring of international sporting coaches.  
Cash contribution towards housing projects – 150% tax deduction for cash contributions up to FJD  50,000 
towards any government -sanctioned housing project for squatters and informal settlements.  
Incentives for senior citizens  – All senior citizens (over 55  years) and pensioners will be exempted from paying 
resident interest withholding tax on interest income of up to FJD  30,000 from bank deposits or pensions, provided 
this is their only source of income.  
10. OTHER CUSTOMS CONCESSIONS INTRODUCED FROM YEAR 2 016 ONWARDS  
Concession  Description  
Transport sector  • A new concession code 287 was first introduced for approved taxi 
operators with only one vehicle, qualified for reduced duty rates.  
• 0% fiscal duty on the importation of bus was introduced for the bus 
companies with a turnover of FJD  1.5 million . 
• The inter -island shipping concession was expanded to allow duty -free 
importation of identifiable fixtures and components, new vessels , and used 
vessels (2 years only).  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 97 - 
 
 Tax and customs incentives  
International events  Concession Code 283  – Duty-free concessions were introduced for the 
importation International Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions 
held in Fiji.  
Local manufacturer/ producer  Concession Code 231A was created to grant concession on packaging 
material to approved ex porters of local fresh produce.  
Medical and pharmaceutical  Concession Code 292  was created for free fiscal and free import excise for 
companies approved under Income Tax (Medical Investment Incentives) 
Regulations 2016.  Goods eligible for duty concession include medical, hospital, 
dental and surgical goods ; capital goods ; and equipm ent, plant and machinery.  
 
Concession Code 294  was introduced for companies or entities  
engaged in the manufacture of pharmaceutical products as approved under the 
Income Tax (Manufacture of Pharmaceutical Products Investment Package) 
Regulations 2019. Goo ds eligible for duty concession include ethanol, raw 
materials used to manufacture pharmaceutical products, machinery, 
equipment , and accessories for free fiscal and free import excise.  
 
Concession Code 298  was introduced for companies, entities , and individuals 
for free fiscal duty, free import excise , and free VAT on the importation of 
listed medical equipment, accessories , and diagnostic kits.  
Investment incentives  Residential Housing Development  – Conce ssion Code 293 was introduced 
for approved companies under the Income Tax (Residential Housing 
Development Package) Regulations 2016. Goods eligible for duty concessions 
include capital goods (capital equipment, plant, machinery and any other 
goods as appr oved by the Comptroller. This does not include kitchenware, raw 
materials, furniture , and other prescribed goods).  
 
Tax Free Region incentive  – Concession Code 290 was introduced for 
approved companies under the Income Tax (Tax Free Region Incentives) 
Regulations 2016 to import raw materials, machinery, and equipment 
(including parts and materials) for the establishment of the business, which 
attracts free fiscal duty and free import excise.  
 
Concession Code 295  was introduced for companies or entities establishing 
waste recycling plants as approved under the Income Tax (Tax Free Region 
Incentives) Regulations 2016.  Goods eligible for duty concessions are raw 
materials, plant, machinery and equipment (including parts and materials) for 
the in itial establishment of the business. Applicants are eligible for free fiscal 
duty and free import excise.  
 
Warehouse Construction Incentive  – Concession Code 296 was introduced 
for companies or entities for construction of warehouses as approved under the 
Income Tax (Warehouse Construction Incentives) Regulations 2019, are 
eligible for duty concession on raw materials, machinery, and equipment for 
the initial establishment. Applicants will qualify for free fiscal and free import 
excise duty.  
 
Retirement Vil lage – Concession Code 297 was introduced for companies or 
entities involved in the establishment of retirement villages and aged care 
facilities as per the regulations under the Income Tax Act 2015. Goods eligible 
for duty concession are raw materials, ma chinery and equipment (including 
parts and materials) for initial establishment of the facility. Applicants will 
qualify for free fiscal and free import excise duty.  
 
Subdivision  of Land  - Approved companies under regulations made in 
relation to a sub division development package under the Income Tax Act 2015.  
Goods eligible for duty concession are raw materials, machinery and 
equipment. Applicants will qualify for free fiscal and free import excise duty.  
 
Private sector investment in building  - Concession Code 300 is introduced 
for approved companies under regulations made in relation to a private sector 
building investment package under the Income Tax Act 2015.  
 
Concession Code 306  was introduced for investment in recycling business as 
per the Income Tax Re gulations relating to this incentive. Goods eligible for 
duty concession include raw materials, machinery and equipment including 
spare parts. Applicants are eligible for free fiscal and free import excise.  
ICT Investment Incentive  Concession Code 302  – Companies or entities in broadcasting and network 
service qualify for free fiscal and free import excise on approved broadcasting 
and telecommunications equipment.  
 
ICT Infrastructure  – Concession Code 303 was introduced for investment in 
ICT structure for ICT purposes as per the Income Regulations relating to this 
incentive. Goods eligible for duty concession include raw materials, machinery WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 98 - 
 
 Tax and customs incentives  
and equipment including spare parts. Applicants are eligible for free fiscal and 
free import excise.  
 
Concession Code 304  was introduced for investment in Telecom ICT Park 
and goods eligible for duty concession are free fiscal and free import excise.  
 
Concession Code 305  was introduced for investment in network cabling and 
infrastructure as per the Income Tax Regulat ions relating to this incentive.  
Other concessions  Termidor chemical (termite control)  – Concession Code 301 was 
introduced for the approved companies or entities to control termites. 
Applicable duty concessions are free fiscal and free import excise.  
 
Fijian Drua  – Concession Code 307 was introduced for goods specifically 
imported for the establishment of the Fijian Drua, related venues(s) high 
performance bases(s) as per the Income Tax Regulations relating to this 
incentive.  
Source:  FRCS, 2023 Fiji Tax  and Customs Incentives, Suva; and information provided by the authorities.  
  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 99 - 
 
 Table A3. 4 Prohibited imports 2023  
Description  
All goods having thereon or on the cover any words, marks or designs of a seditious nature, or of a nature 
in the opinion of the Minister to disturb Fiji 's peace and order  
Counterfeit coin, imitation or counterfeit bank notes  
Dangerous drugs, including raw opium, any seed of the opium poppy or any portion of the plant; Indian 
Hemp ( Cannabis Sativa  or Cannabis Indica ) and its resin, seed or any portion of the plant; cocoa leaf and 
any such seed or portion of the plant; prepared opium, opium pipe s or other utensils for its smoking or used 
to prepare it for consumption; lysergide (N.N. Diethyl -lysergamide); mescaline 
(3,4,5 -trimethylosy -phenethylamine); peyotl (any part of the plant of the species laphophora williamsi  or 
laphophora lewinii ) 
Goods that in the Minister 's opinion are dangerous and a menace to the community e.g. daggers, electronic 
shock sticks, flick knives, gravity knives, knuckle dusters, sword sticks, attaché cases capable of discharging 
electric shocks of 30,000 volts, and taser for public defenders  
Goods that, whether of their own nature or having regard to any literary or other work or matter that is 
embodied, recorded or reproduced in, or can be reproduced from the goods, are blasphemous, indecent or 
obscene, unduly emphasize m atters of sex, horror, violence or crime, or are likely to encourage depravity.  
The book Satanic Verses  is a prohibited import . 
Machines for playing games of chance, being games that require no action by any player other than the 
actuation or manipulation of the machine  
Manufactured fireworks containing potassium chlorate or other chlorates mixed with sulphur or any 
sulphides, phosphorous , or aluminium powder with or without the addition of other substances  
Matches made from yellow or white phosphorous  
Thalidomide and its preparations  
Chemical warfare gas and devices and apparatus designed to use such gas  
All tubers, bulbs, corns, rhizomes, peanuts, and other oil seeds not including any product composed of or 
made therefrom, intended for human consumption, that have been subject to manufacturing processes 
other than or in addition to rolling, flaking, pearling or milling  
All cereals, pulses (dried leguminous vegetables, shelled, whether or not skinned or split) and legumes an d 
products composed or made from them, including stock feed (excluding polished rice and pulses intended 
for human consumption and products made from or composed of cereals, pulses, and legumes intended for 
human consumption, that have been subject to any manufacturing process other than or in addition to 
rolling, flaking, pearling or milling) from all trading partners except Australia, Canada, Japan, Mexico, 
New Zealand , Chinese  Taipei, the United  States , and all Pacific Island territories  other than Frenc h Pacific 
Territories and Vanuatu (flour and sharps made in mills and by a process approved by the permanent 
Secretariat for Primary Industries may be imported from France)  
Phenacetin or any drug combination or substance containing Phenacetin  
Weights or measures, or weighing or measuring instruments, graduated in imperial or in both imperial and 
metric units, and used for trade purposes  
The drug Novalgin containing the active ingredient dipyrone or any drug combination or substance 
containing dipyrone  
Source:  Customs (Prohibited Imports and Exports) Regulations, 1986 , Schedule 1 ; and information provided 
by the authorities.  
  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 100 - 
 
 Table A3. 5 Licensed imports 2023  
Description  Conditions, restrictions , or requirements  
Fireworks (other than those prohibited)  Import licence from the Principal Inspector of Mines.  
Goods must be imported through the Port of Suva and be 
physically examined, and are subject to the issue of a 
removal licence by the Principal Inspector of Mines  
Margarine or any other mixture of edible fats, 
oils and water, prepared in the form of a solid 
or semi -solid emulsion, including every 
substance made in the imitation of butter or 
ghee (clarified butter) and every other 
preparation resembling butter or ghee, the fat 
content of which is not derived from milk  Must comply with the Pure Food Act or all regulations 
made thereunder  
Sweetened/unsweetened condensed milk, 
dried milk, reconstituted milk, separated or 
dried separat ed milk, and milk substitute or 
any other product containing skim milk and 
any fat other than butter fat  Must comply with the Pure Food Act or all regulations 
made thereunder  
Methylated spirits  Import licence issued under the Methylated Spirits Act  
Radio communication equipment constructed 
or adapted for emission  Import licence issued by the telecommunications 
authority  
Radioactive substances other than luminous 
dials of watches, clocks or other instruments  Written permission from the permanent Secretariat of 
Health, meeting specified conditions  
Spirits of brandy, whisky and rum  Importer must prove maturity in wood for at least three 
years for brandy and whisky, and two years for rum.  
Production of certificate issued in the exporting country 
will be sufficient  
Whale 's teeth (Tabua)  Imported by Ministry of Fijian Affairs or in accordance 
with an import licence issued by the Ministry  
Apparatus or device designed to detect 
advanced warning of the presence of any 
lawfully established radar check point  Import licence issued by the Telecommunications 
Authority  
Mechanical cane harvesters classified in 
HS items 8433.51.00, 8433.52.00, 
8433.53.00 and 8433.59.00  Import licence from the Permanent Secretary for Primary 
Industries  
Branches and leaves from all trees originating 
in Queensland (Australia) and Papua  New 
Guinea  Import certificate from Papua  New Guinea or 
Solomon  Islands  appropriate agricultural authority stating 
that they are free of pests and disease  and do not belong 
to the family Meliaceae  or the group Coniferae  
Apparatus or device to receive radio or TV 
transmission, other than domestic broadcasts  Import licence from the telecommunications authority  
Salt classified in HS 2501.00.00  Import permit from the Permanent Secretariat for Health  
Gold items classified in HS 7108.11.00, 12.00, 
13.00, 7108.20.00 and 7109.00.00, 
sweepings, residues, lemels, and other waste 
and scraps of gold classified in HS items 
7112.20.00 and gold coin classified in 
HS 7118.90.11. 90.21, 90.90  Import licence from the Minister of Finance  
Galvanized or zincalume pre -coated metal coil 
sheet classified in HS 7210.20.10, 90, 30.10, 
90, 41.20, 90, 49.10, 90, 50.10, 90, 61.10, 
9069.10, 90  Import licence from t he Permanent Secretary for 
Industry, Trade and Tourism  
Cyclonic crew fasteners, washers and seals for 
roof and wall cladding, classified in 
HS 7317.00.90, 73.18.15.00, 19.00, 22.00, 
29.00  Import licence from the Permanent Secretary for 
Industry, Trade and Tourism  
Animals, animal products, manure, packing 
material, fittings or fodder  Written permission of Assistant Director of Agriculture 
(Animal Health and production) or in accordance with 
regulations under the Animals Importation Act  
Arms and ammunition  Import licence issued by Commissioner of Police subject 
to Arms and Ammunition Act  
Copyright in any published literary, dramatic 
or musical work  Copyright (Customs Regulations) (Page 6839 Vol. X)  
Dangerous drugs covered by part IV  In accordance with the Dangerous Drugs Act  
Excisable goods  In accordance with a licence issued by the Comptroller of 
Customs under Excise Act 1986  
Currency notes and certificate of title  In accordance with exchange control regulations issued 
by the Reserve Bank under the Exchange Control Act  
Explosives  Import licence under the Explosive Act  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 101 - 
 
 Description  Conditions, restrictions , or requirements  
Trademark material  Merchandise Marks Act  
Plants and plant material, bacteria, viruses, 
soil, sand, clay, earth, plant pests or other 
invertebrate animals  In accordance with Plant Quarantine Act  
Rags, second -hand clothing and bedding  Must be properly disinfected under official supervision at 
importer's expense or accompanied by a Health 
Certificate from exporting country stating that the goods 
have been properly disinfected prior to export 
(Quarantine Act)  
Pharmaceuticals and poisons  In accordance with the Medicinal Products Act  
Source:  Customs (Prohibited Imports and Exports) Regulations, 1986 , Schedule 2 ; and information provided 
by the authorities.  
  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 102 - 
 
 Table A3. 6 Selected industries under the scope of the FCCC  
Industry  Specifications  
Agriculture  Rates  for Mechanical  Harvesting  Services  for Sugarcane  
Rates  for Sugarcane  Cartage  Lorry Services  from Rakiraki  to Rarawai  
Airports  / 
Aeronautical 
Services  Air navigation  charges  
Terminal  navigation  fee 
Airfield  charges  – domestic  & international  landing  fee 
Incinerator  fees 
International  and domestic  parking  fees 
Airport  development  charge  and airport  security  charge  
Cement  Ex-factory  bag & bulk cement  
Electricity  Electricity  rates 
Ancillary  services  
Installation  licence  fee 
Electrical  contractors'  licence  
Wiretapper's  licence  
Re-inspection  and test of work on consumer's  installation  
New connection  fees/installation  of metering  system  
Metering  system  costs 
Reconnection  of supply  to consumer's  installation  – broken  mains  
Reconnection  following  disconnection  for non-payment  of electricity  account  
Disconnection/reconnection  of supply  at consumers  request  
Minimum  electricity  charge  
Meter  testing  & adjustments  of accounts  
Administration  charges  
Gas (LPG)  Domestic  cylinder  4.5 kg and 12 kg 
Autogas  
Bulk 
Marina  Marina  management  services  on 
Passenger  levies  on commercial  ships 
Levies  on cargo  transportation  
Services  to local commercial  operators  and users  in Fiji 
Petroleum  Unleaded  motor  spirit 
Diesel  
Premix  
Kerosene  
Pharmaceutical  75 product  
categories:    
Allopurinol  100 mg Tablets  
Amoxycillin  250 mg, 
500 mg Capsules  
Amoxycillin  125 mg/5  ml Suspension/powder  
Aspirin  300 mg Tablets  
Atenolol  50 mg Tablets  
Cough  mixture   Syrup  
Benzyl  benzoate  25% Lotion  
Bisacodyl  5 mg Tablets/suppository  
Bisacodyl  10 mg Suppository  
Carbamazapine  200 mg Tablets  
Carbimazole  5 mg Tablets  
Chloramphenicol  250 mg Capsules  
Chloramphenicol  125 mg/5  ml Suspension  
Colchicine  0.5 mg Tablets  
Co-trimoxazole  240 mg/5  ml Suspension  
Co-trimoxazole  480 mg Tablets  
Diazepam  5 mg Tablets  
Digoxin  250 mcg, 
62.5 mcg Tablets  
Econazole  1% Cream  
Econazole  150 mg Pessary  
Enalapril  5 mg Tablets  
Erythromycin  250 mg Tablets  
Erythropoietin  
injection  N/A Injection  
Erythromycin  
(estolate  base) 125 mg/5  ml Suspension  
Ferrous  sulphate  200 mg Tablets  
Flucloxacillin  250 mg, 
500 mg Capsules  
Frusemide  40 mg Tablets  
Glibenclamide  5 mg Tablets  
Glipizide  5 mg Tablets  
Glyceryl  trinitrate  600 mcg Tablets  
Griseofulvin  125 mg, 
500 mg Tablets  
Hydrochlorothiazide  25 mg Tablets  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 103 - 
 
 Industry  Specifications  
 Hydrocortisone  1% Cream  
Ibuprofen  400 mg Tablets  
Insulin  neutral  1000 u/10 ml Injection  
Insulin  isophane  1000 u/10 ml Injection  
Mixed  (biphasic  
70/30)  1000 u/10 ml Injection  
Indomethacin  25 mg Capsules  
Isosorbide  dinitrate  10 mg Tablets  
Mebendazole  100 mg Tablets  
Metformin  500 mg Tablets  
Methyldopa  250 mg Tablets  
Metronidazole  200 mg Tablets  
Antacid  
+/- simethicone  N/A Suspension/tablets  
Neomycin  1%/0.5%  Ointment  
Nifedipine  20 mg Tablets  
Oral rehydration  
salt For 1 L prep Crystal  
Paracetamol  
500 mg / Codeine 
8 mg 500 mg/8  mg Tablets/caplets  
Paracetamol  120 mg/5  ml Suspension  
Paracetamol  500 mg Tablets/caplets  
Tylenol  500 mg Tablets  
Penicillin  250 mg Tablets  
Penicillin  125 mg/5  ml Syrup  
Potassium  chloride  600 mg Tablets  
Prednisolone  5 mg Tablets  
Prochlorperazine  5 mg Tablets  
Promethazine  1 mg/1  ml Elixir 
Promethazine  10 mg Tablets  
Propranolol  10 mg, 
40 mg Tablets  
Ranitidine  300 mg Tablets  
Salbutamol  2 mg/5  ml Elixir 
Salbutamol  100 mcg Inhaler  
Salbutamol  4 mg Tablets  
Sodium  valproate  
(enteric  coated)  200 mg Tablets  
Tetracycline  250 mg Capsules  
Warfarin  1 mg, 3 mg, 
5 mg Tablets  
Loperamide  2 mg Capsule/tablets  
Ports  Marine  / navigation  charges  (overseas  vessels)  
Wharfage  charges  
Dockage  charges  
Security  charges  
Local vessels  tariff 
Ancillary  charges  
Stevedoring  charges  
 Vehicle  discharge/  loading  charges  
Container  handling  & machine  hiring  charges  
Storage/  demurrage  charges  
Postal  Domestic  letters  
Sea/surface  parcel  
Air parcel  international  mail 
Private  mailbox  
Shipping  Domestic  Inter-Island  Passenger  and freight  rates 
Pharmacy  Licensing  
Steel  Ex-factory  grade  300 & 500 reinforcement  steel rods 
Sugar  Ex-Warehouse  Wholesale  Price (VEP)  FJD, FSC Bulk Pack Sugar  25 kg 
Sugars  of Fiji Product  - 1 kg, 2 kg, 4 kg 
Telecommunicatio ns Access  to capacity  and network  charges,  
Interconnection rates:  international  inbound call  minute,  ICT levy, special handling levy, 
mobile termination rate, fixed termination rate  
Wholesale  bandwidth  rates 
Interoperability  fees for e-ticketing  services  
Transport  Omnibus  fares 
Minibus  fares 
Taxi fares WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 104 - 
 
 Industry  Specifications  
Water  Water  rates 
Domestic  sewage  
Liquid  trade waste  
The FCCC Act 2010 is inclusive legislation that protects (among others) women, rural dwellers, and other disadvantaged 
groups. Examples of specific provisions are as follows (but not limited to):  
Section  39- Minister may impose price control in circumstances of restricted competition ; 
Section  41- Controlled goods or services not to be supp lied except in accordance with the authorized price ; 
Section  52- Prohibited Act ; 
Section  45- Rents;  
Section  52- Prohibited Acts;  
Section  53- Refusal to sell at maximum price ; 
Section  53 A- Prices of goods and services to reflect the decrease in duty and ta x; 
Section  75- Misleading or deceiving conduct;  
Section  76- Unconscionable conduct;  
Section  77- False or misleading representation;  
Section  78- False or misleading advertisement;  
Section  79- False or misleading representation and other misleading or offensive conduct in relation to land;  
Section  81- Misleading conduct in relation to employment;  
Section  85- Offering gifts or prizes;  
Section  86- Bait advertising;  
Section  87- Referral selling;  
Section  87 A- Pyramid selling scheme;  
Section  87 E- Refusal to sell goods or services unless other goods or services are also purchased; 
Section  87 F- Adulteration;  
Section  87 G- Hoarding;  
Section  87 J- Statement of price or condition and pull date;  
Section  88- Accepting payment without being able to supply as ordered;  
Section  90- Harassment and coercion; and  
Part 8, Division 1 - Warranty.  
Source:  Information provided by the authorities.   WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 105 - 
 
 Table A3. 7 Goods and services under price control 2023  
Description  Specifications  
Basic food items   
Rice – imported  Specific quantities of 1  kg, 2 kg, 10  kg 
Wholesale quantities: 1  kg, 2 kg, 10  kg, 40  kg, 45  kg and 50  kg 
Premium product is not subject to price control.  
Sugar – imported  Regulate the allowable mark -up at wholesale and retail level (percentage 
level)  
Sugar – local Regulate the allowable mark -up at wholesale and retail level (percentage 
level)  
Salt – imported  500 g, 907  g, 1 kg only  
Dried leguminous vegetables shelled, 
whether or not skinned or split – 
imported  Only spilt peas and blue peas are controlled in 500 g, 1 kg, and 2  kg 
quantity.  
Wholesale quantity: 10  kg, 25  kg, 45.36  kg, and 50  kg 
Potatoes – imported  Wholesale and retail prices are subject to control.  
Onions – imported  Wholesale and retail prices are subject to control.  
Garlic – imported  Wholesale and retail prices are subject to control.  
Baby milk of all types – imported/locally  
packed  Specific quantity of 350  g, 400  g, 900  g 
Canned fish – imported  Tuna: 142  g, 170  g, 185  g 
Sardines: 106  g, 155  g, 425  g 
Tin fish: 155  g, 425  g 
In natural oil, water and tomato sauce only.  
Brine and other premium types are excluded.  
Tea of all types – local/imported 
(excepting Masala tea)  Specific quantity 100  g, 200  g tea leaves  
Tea bags are excluded  
Powdered milk – imported  Specific quantity of 250  g, 300  g, 450  g and 500  g 
Liquid milk blue packet (12 x 1 L)  Regulate the retail prices.  
Liquid milk white packet (12 x 1 L)  Regulate the retail prices.  
Corned beef and corned mutton 
(canned) (with or without other 
ingredients) – imported/local  Specific quantity 200  g, 326  g, and 340  g 
Edible oil – imported  Only soya bean and canola oil are now controlled  
Specific quantity: 250  ml, 500  ml, 750  ml, 1 L, 2 L, 3 L, 4 L and 5  L. 
Margarine all types – imported  250 g, 500  g 
Butter  Only retail prices are controlled: 125 g, 250  g, 500  g 
Bread  Only 3 types and quantity are controlled – long loaf (white), slice white 
medium and wholemeal  
Wheat products  Ex-factory wholesale, wholesale and retail prices are subject to control – 
1 kg, 2 kg, 4 kg, 5 kg, 10 kg, 25  kg & 50  kg 
Biscuits – breakfast crackers  Wholesale and retail prices are subject to control.  
Stationery  Stationery and related commodities (imported) described hereunder:  
 • exercise books  
• chalks  
• crayons  
• colour pencils  
• pencil sharpener  
• rubbers  
• erasers  
• pencils  
• ring binders  
• book keeping cash books  
• journal ledger  
• ball pens  
• compass  
• protectors  
• rulers  
• ruled foolscaps  • stencils  
• mathematical sets  
• set squares  
• dividers  
• drawing books  
• note books  
• brown paper  
• vanguard sheets  
• sellotape  
• duplicating paper  
• duplicating ink  
• correcting fluid  
• maps  
• gum 
• water colours  
 Text books used by educational institutions in Fiji (imported)  
Agricultural pesticides and 
fertilizers  Agricultural pesticides of all type imported  
 Fertilizers imported falling within chapters 81 of tariff act.  
Spare parts  Tyre and tubes (imported ) 
 Storage batteries (imported)  
 • spark plugs  
• contact points  
• condenses  
• seal beams  
• oil filters  
• air filters  
• fuel filters  
• shock absorbers  
• blubs  
• exhaust pipes and silencers  • wiper blades  
• wiper refills  
• brake and clutch washers  
• master cylinder kits  
• brake kits  
• clutch and slave  
• carburettor kits  
• coils 
• fuse 
• clutch plates  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 106 - 
 
 Description  Specifications  
• wiper motors and linkages  
• wiper arms  • pressure plates  
• tie rod ends  
LPG Domestic cylinder 4.5  kg and 12  kg 
 Autogas  
 Bulk 
Petroleum products  Unleaded motor spirit  
 Diesel  
 Premix  
 Kerosene  
Inter -island shipping  Passenger and freight rates  
Ports  Marine / navigation charges (overseas vessels)  
Wharfage charges  
Dockage charges  
Security charges  
Local vessels tariff  
Ancillary charges  
Stevedoring charges  
Vehicle discharge/ loading charges  
Container handling & machine hiring charges  
Storage/ demurrage charges  
Electricity  Electricity rates;  
Ancillary services:  
Installation licence fee  
Electrical contractors licence  
Wiretapper's  licence  
Re-inspection and test of work on consumer's installation  
New connection fees/installation of metering system  
Metering system costs  
Reconnection of supply to consumer's installation – broken mains  
Reconnection following disconnection for non -payment of electricity account  
Disconnec tion/reconnection of supply at consumers request  
Minimum electricity charge  
Meter testing & adjustments of accounts  
Administration charges  
Aeronautical services  Air navigation charges  
Terminal navigation fee  
Airfield charges – domestic & international landing fee  
Incinerator fees  
International and domestic parking fees  
Airport development charge and airport security charge  
Marina  Marina management services on:  
Passenger levies on commercial ships;  
Levies on cargo transportation;  
Services to local commercial operators and users in Fiji.  
Cement  Ex-factory bag & bulk cement  
Steel  Ex-factory grade 300 & 500 reinforcement steel rods  
Postal services  Domestic letters  
Sea/surface parcel  
Air parcel  
International mail  
Private mail box  
Telecommunication s Access to capacity and network charges,  
Interconnection rates: international inbound call minute, ICT levy, special 
handling levy, mobile termination rate, fixed termination rate  
Wholesale bandwidth r ates 
Interoperability fees for e -ticketing services  
Water & sewerage  Water rates  
Domestic sewage  
Liquid trade waste  
Pharmaceutical items  75 product categories:  
Allopurinol  100 mg Tablets  
Amoxycillin  250 mg, 
500 mg Capsules  
Amoxycillin  125 mg/5  ml Suspension/powder  
Aspirin  300 mg Tablets  
Atenolol  50 mg Tablets  
Cough mixture   Syrup  
Benzyl benzoate  25% Lotion  
Bisacodyl  5 mg Tablets/suppository  
Bisacodyl  10 mg Suppository  
Carbamazapine  200 mg Tablets  
Carbimazole  5 mg Tablets  
Chloramphenicol  250 mg Capsules  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 107 - 
 
 Description  Specifications  
Chloramphenicol  125 mg/5  ml Suspension  
Colchicine  0.5  mg Tablets  
Co-trimoxazole  240 mg/5  ml Suspension  
Co-trimoxazole  480 mg Tablets  
Diazepam  5 mg Tablets  
Digoxin  250 mcg, 
62.5 mcg Tablets  
Econazole  1% Cream  
Econazole  150 mg Pessary  
Enalapril  5 mg Tablets  
Erythromycin  250 mg Tablets  
Erythropoietin injection  N/A Injection  
Erythromycin (estolate 
base)  125 mg/5  ml Suspension  
Ferrous sulphate  200 mg Tablets  
Flucloxacillin  250 mg, 
500 mg Capsules  
Frusemide  40 mg Tablets  
Glibenclamide  5 mg Tablets  
Glipizide  5 mg Tablets  
Glyceryl trinitrate  600 mcg Tablets  
Griseofulvin  125 mg, 
500 mg Tablets  
Hydrochlorothiazide  25 mg Tablets  
Hydrocortisone  1% Cream  
Ibuprofen  400 mg Tablets  
Insulin neutral  1000 u/10 ml Injection  
Insulin isophane  1000 u/10 ml Injection  
Mixed (biphasic 70/30)  1000 u/10 ml Injection  
Indomethacin  25 mg Capsules  
Isosorbide dinitrate  10 mg Tablets  
Mebendazole  100 mg Tablets  
Metformin  500  mg Tablets  
Methyldopa  250 mg Tablets  
Metronidazole  200 mg Tablets  
Antacid +/ - simethicone  n.a Suspension/tablets  
Neomycin  1%/0.5%  Ointment  
Nifedipine  20 mg Tablets  
Oral rehydration salt  For 1 L prep Crystal  
Paracetamol 500  mg / 
Codeine 8 mg 500 mg/8 mg Tablets/caplets  
Paracetamol  120 mg/5  ml Suspension  
Paracetamol  500 mg Tablets/caplets  
Tylenol  500 mg  Tablets  
Penicillin  250 mg Tablets  
Penicillin  125 mg/5  ml Syrup  
Potassium chloride  600 mg Tablets  
Prednisolone  5 mg Tablets  
Prochlorperazine  5 mg Tablets  
Promethazine  1 mg/1  ml Elixir 
Promethazine  10 mg Tablets  
Propranolol  10 mg, 40  mg Tablets  
Ranitidine  300 mg Tablets  
Salbutamol  2 mg/5  ml Elixir 
Salbutamol  100 mcg Inhaler  
Salbutamol  4 mg Tablets  
Sodium valproate (enteric 
coated)  200 mg Tablets  
Tetracycline  250 mg Capsules  
Warfarin  1 mg, 3  mg, 
5 mg Tablets  
Loperamide  2 mg  Capsule/tablets  
Hardware products  Cladding & boards  
Masonite board 2450 X 1225 X 4.5 mm/ 3  mm/ 4  mm 
S/Flex cement board 2400 X 1200 X 4.5 mm/ 6  mm 
Concrete blocks  
Bond beam 400  mm x 200 mm x (100/150/200)  mm 
Standard whole 400  mm x 200 mm x (100/150/200)  mm 
Cement stik 4 Ltr/ 750  ml 
Electrical products  
2' w/proof tube light frame  
Tube light fitting 2  FT and 4  FT 
Zelmite boards 14"x12"  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 108 - 
 
 Description  Specifications  
Meter box galv 14x12 single/galv 18x20 double  
Neutral link 5 hole  
Gang switch w/light 10  A and 15  A 
One/two/three gang switch 10  A, 15  A and 20 A  
GPO with light switch  
Junction box  
Main entry box 2 terminal  
35 amps single pole main switch  
Main switch 40 amps S/P LEGEND  
10 amps and 16 amps ELCB with base  
Earth rod 4'6"X16 mm RMS casco/ earth Clip 16  mm 
Fuse wire HPM card R1202  
35 amps HPM main switch S/P  
65 a single pole main switch  
Batten holder  
Plain to screwed adaptor 25  mm with lock  
Plain coupling 20  mm and 25  mm 
Conduit bends 20  mm, 25  mm, 32  mm, 40  mm and 50  mm 
M/C breaker 10 amps and 16 amps  
DC141 2.5  mm/6  mm PVC single black coil  
1 mm TPS light wire/switch wire coil  
2.5 mm TPS festoon wire coil  
2.5 mm twin + earth – STD 
0.75  mm 3 core grey flex coil  
6 mm twin H/D main wire coil  
PVC conduit pipe grey/orange (16  mm, 20  mm, 25  mm and 32  mm) 
(MD/HD)  
Cable pin clip no.1, no. 2 and no. 3 (100's)  
Fasteners  
Barrel bolt brass (50  mm/ 75 mm) w/screws  
L/duty z/c plated butt hinges (4")/ tee hinges (150  mm/100  mm) 
Tylok plate 4T10 72X115 L/Lok/ 8T15 110X235L/LOK  
Strapping 10 Mtr x 1.2 mm L/Lok  
Thru bolt M6.5 X 35/ M6 X 58/ M10 X (48/75/98)mm/ Thru bolt M12 X 
(58/75/98/129) mm  
Wire nails 40  mm / 75  mm/ 100  mm/ 150  mm J/H or F/H  
Galvani zed nails 25  mm/ 40  mm/ 50  mm/ 75  mm/ 100  mm/ 150  mm J/H  
Galv clout nail 20  mm/ 25  mm x 2.8  
Panel pin J/H or F/H 20  mm/ 25  mm 
Concrete nail 25  mm/ 40  mm/ 75  mm/ 100  mm 
Twisted/ plain shank roofing nails  
Roof screw 14x65 type 17 unassembled/ (R/D)  
Night latch/ mortise lock  
Black/ galv binding wire 20  G/ 16 G 
Silock PVC glue 100 grms  
Louv re Frames  
Louvre frame 3 blade s/c / 8 blade d/c  
3/ 8 blade alumn.l/frame w/screws  
Louvre blade (24/30/36)mm x 6 x 5 mm clear  
Paint  
Paint brush maroon handle 25  mm/ 75  mm/ 100  mm 
Paint roller sleeve 9" GP  
Roller handle 9" L/Duty  
Paint tray 230  mm (light type)  
Paint roller kit 9" standard  
APCO no frill high/semi -gloss white 10  Ltr/ 4  Ltr 
No frill HG 4  L assorted colours  
Taubmans prokote high/semi -gloss white 4  Ltr/ 10  Ltr 
Prokote HG 4  L assorted colours  
Thrift high/ semi -gloss white – 4 LT/ 10  LT 
Thrift flat plastic (block sealer) – 4 LT/ 10  LT 
Thrift high gloss 4  LT assorted colours  
Thrift pink primer/ white undercoat - 4 LT 
Thrift anti -rust (chassis) black/ grey/ red – 1 LT/ 4 LT 
Colourshop HG 4LT assorted colours  
Plumbing  
PVC pressure pipe 15  mm/ 20  mm/ 25  mm/ 40  mm/ 50  mm  
PVC vent cowl 50  mm/ 100  mm waste  
PVC gully trap 100  mm wst  
PVC boss on trap 100x50 mm wst  
PVC p -trap 40  mm waste  
PVC s - & p-trap 40x32/ 50  mm/ 40  mm waste  
PVC waste pipe 32  mm/ 40  mm/ 50  mm/ 100 mm/ 150  mm 
PVC gutter 2.9  mtr WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 109 - 
 
 Description  Specifications  
PVC gutter bracket/ joiner, PVC gutter stop end lh / rh  
PVC plain rain head  
PVC gutter external angle/ internal angle  
PVC downpipe junction/ clip/ socket/ bend 95 deg/ 112 deg  
PVC down pipe 80  mm white  
Brass bib/ stop/ hose cock 15  mm 
Brass bib tap/ hose tap 15  mm 
Brass gate valve 15  mm 
Caroma toilet seat black/white  
Caroma toilet pan white p -trap 
Zagros s/s s/bowl 4' sink + grati/ d/bowl 6' sink + grati  
Toilet cistern  
Plywood  
Interior plywood 2100 x 900 x 3 mm/4  mm 
Interior plywood 2400 x 1200 x 3 mm/ 4  mm/ 6  mm/ 9  mm/ 12  mm 
Exterior plywood 2100 x 900 x 3 mm/ 4  mm 
Exterior plywood 2400 x 1200 x 3 mm/ 4  mm/ 6  mm/ 9  mm/ 12  mm 
Roofing  
Ridge cap galvani zed/ Zincalume 26  G x 6ft 
Flashing galvani zed/ Zincalume 6'x 26G  
Roofing iron galvanized/ Zincalume (26 gauge) per feet  
Single sided escalation 1.250x60m  
Double sided FR aluminium foil insulation  
Timber  
H3 dressed/ rough pine timber of assorted sizes  
Treated pine post of assorted sizes (max 4  m x 125 mm)  
Rough boxing timber of assorted sizes (max 300  mm x 50 mm)  
Treated pine decking/ flooring 100  mm/ 75  mm x 25 mm  
Treated pine weather board 150 mmx 25  mm 
Treated pine lining 100  mm/ 150  mm x 25 mm  
Pine shiplap 100  mm x 25 mm  
Skirting 75  mm x 25 mm  
1/4 and 1/2 round  
Tools 
Firmer chisel 12  mm plastic handle  
Brick laying trowel type 200 mm  
Plastering trowel flat 250 x 100 mm  
Tape measure 3  m 
Tubular  handle hacksaw frame 300  mm/ hacksaw blade  
Claw hammer wooden handle 27  mm 
Aluminium (yellow) level 24"  
Trowel plasterer w/h 280 x 115 mm  
Hacksaw tubular 300  mm aluminium frame  
Handsaw cushion grip tri cut 22"x 10p  
300 mm comb square  
Hand saw 650  mm  
Electricity ( licensing)  
Electricity pricing  
Transport sector  
 
Transportation pricing: omnibus fare, taxi fare, m inibus fare 
 
Cost index model is utilized to determine the fares for above three transport sectors. The weightings of each cost 
component of the particular sector are determined and then inflated using the change in these from year to year. The 
omnibus fares are determined per stages, minibus fares per routes , and taxi fares have three different fare compone nts 
that are flag fall, running, and waiting charges. The review process involves calling out for submissions, conducting 
stakeholder consultations, collating submissions , and analysing  financial information gathered through submissions 
that are input into  the cost index models.  
Agriculture  
 
Mechanical Harvester  
 
Sugar Cane Cartage Lorry Services from Rakiraki to Rarawai Mill  
 
Cost index model is also utilized to determine the rates for above two agriculture sectors. The weightings of each cost 
component of the particular sector are determined and then inflated using the change in these from year to year. The 
mechanical harvester rates are determined per tonne, and the sugarcane cartage rates are determined per different 
zones or geographical bou ndaries. The review process again involves calling out for submissions, conducting 
stakeholder consultations, collating submissions , and analysing  financial information gathered through submissions 
that are input into the cost index models.  WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 110 - 
 
 Description  Specifications  
Telecommunicat ions 
 
Prices for Broadband Capacity Services Carried over Backhaul Fibre Network between nominated network nodes 
operated by Telecom Fiji Ltd (TFL) within Fiji  
 
Prices for National Interconnection and Access to International Submarine Cables using Fijian Cable Landing Stations  
 
Prices and Access to Savusavu -Suva Submarine Cable Infrastructure  
n.a. Non applicable.  
Source:  Information provided by the authorities.   
 WT/TPR/S/ 444 • Fiji 
 
- 111 - Table A4. 1 Air services agreements  
 Date  5th 7th Cabotage  Coop  Designation  Withholding  Pricing  Capacity  Exchange of 
statistics  ALI ST  
Australia  [01/10/1999]  
05/2017  .. 
 .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 
Canada  30/04/1974  Y N N N M SOEC  DA PD Y 10.0 
Chile 09/07/1973  Y N N N S SOEC  DA PD Y 6.0 
China  10/12/1997  N N N N S SOEC  DA PD Y 0.0 
France  03/06/1981  Y N N N S SOEC  DA PD Y 6.0 
India [28/01/1974]  
09/03/2017  .. 
 .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 
Japan  18/11/1993  Y N N N M SOEC  DA PD Y 10.0 
Malaysia  26/11/1990  N N N N S SOEC  DA PD Y 0.0 
Marshall Islands  19/12/1990  Y N N N S SOEC  DA PD Y 6.0 
New Zealand  03/05/1998  Y N N N M SOEC  DA B1 Y 14.0 
Papua New Guinea  25/03/1996  N N N N S SOEC  DA PD Y 0.0 
Samoa  07/02/1991  N N N N S SOEC  DA PD Y 0.0 
Solomon  Islands  23/05/1991  N N N N S SOEC  DA PD Y 0.0 
Tonga  17/11/1971  Y N N N S SOEC  DA PD Y 6.0 
Türkiye  05/10/2009  .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 
Tuvalu  15/12/1989  Y N N N S SOEC  DA B1 Y 10.0 
United  Kingdom  04/12/1998  N N N N M SOEC  DD B1 Y 14.0 
United  States  25/10/1985  Y N N N M SOEC  CoO FD N 22.0 
Vanuatu  24/03/1993  Y N N N M SOEC  DA PD Y 10.0 
.. Not available.  
Note:  5th: Fifth freedom rights, even limited ones, are granted. If fifth freedom rights are subject to approval by the aeronautical auth orities, they are coded as NOT 
granted.  
 7th: Seventh freedom rights, even limited ones, are granted. If seventh freedom rights are subject to approval by the aeronautical authorities, they  are coded 
as NOT granted.  
 Cabotage : Cabotage rights, even limited ones are granted. If cabotage rights are subject to approval by the aeronautical authori ties, they are coded as NOT 
granted.  
 Cooperation : Clauses allowing cooperation between airlines , e.g. code -sharing.  
 Designation : Designation is coded as single by an "S" or multiple by an "M".  
 Withholding : Type of withholding clause: Substantial Ownership and Effective Control (SOEC ), Principal Place of Business (PPoB), Community of 
Interest  (COI). 
 Pricing : Double Approval (DA), Double Disapproval (DD), Country of Origin (CoO), Zone Pricing (ZP), and Free Pr icing (FP). 
 Capacity : Type of capacity clause: Pre -Determination (PD), Bermuda I  (B1), Free Determination (FD), and other (O). 
 Statistics : Exchange of statistics is foreseen by the agreement.  
 ALI ST: Air Liberalization Index Standard.  
 Dates in brackets indicate old dates of revised ASAs.  
Source:  Compiled by the WTO Secretariat , based on information  provided by the authorities.  
__________  