Fiji Government, PO Box 2225/Govt Buildings, Suva City (2026)

20/06/2026

MINISTRY SUBSIDIZES SUGARCANE HARVESTING AND CARTAGE COSTS OF LORRIES, MECHANICAL HARVESTERS, LOCOMOTIVES AND TRACTORS USED ONLY FOR CANE CARTAGE

Further to the announcement made on the 10th June 2026, the Ministry of Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry (‘Ministry’) is advising stakeholders that a total of $5.0 million has been allocated from its 2025/2026 budget to support sugarcane farmers in meeting the rising fuel cost for cartage and mechanical harvesting. The funding has been re-allocated from its existing programs from the Sugar Industry and Agriculture sector.

According to industry records, approximately 4,600,000 litres of diesel fuel was utilized by lorries, locomotives, mechanical harvesters, and tractors for harvesting and carting cane in the 2025 season. This excludes about 1,200,000 litres used by the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) diesel generators at the sugar factories during cane crushing. From the 4,600,000 liters, about 2,300,000 litres was consumed in the first three months, from June to August.

The Minister for Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry, Hon. Tomasi Tunabuna confirms that the $5.0 million will be used to subsidize diesel fuel at $2.00 per litre and will only fund the lorries, mechanical harvesters, locomotives and tractors that will be used in the cane harvesting and cartage activities.

The specific conditions for the Fuel Subsidy is:

1. The Fuel Subsidy will cover the period from 20th June 2026 to 31st August 2026, as temporary relief.

2. All lorries, tractors used for cane cartage, mechanical harvesters and locomotives (hereby referred to as the ‘beneficiaries’) must be registered with the Fiji Sugar Corporation and must comply with the Land Transport Authority requirements.

3. The funding of $2.00 per litre diesel fuel subsidy will go directly to the sugarcane farmers. However, the mechanism to distribute the subsidy will be decided collectively by the three parties; Fiji Sugar Corporation, Sugar Industry Tribunal and the Sugar Cane Growers Council. The parties will ensure that there is no double dipping by the beneficiaries.

4. The monitoring and verification of fuel subsidy utilization will be strictly monitored by Sugar Cane Growers Council and Fiji Sugar Corporation to ensure there is no misuse of the fuel subsidy.

5. The subsidy is on first-come-first-serve basis and will take into account the volume of cane harvested and delivered to the mills.

6. The program will end on 31st August 2026, or until the subsidy has been fully utilized, whichever comes first.

7. The subsidy will be managed by Fiji Sugar Corporation and will be released through the existing payment system upon thorough verification.

8. Farmers are required to consult with the Fiji Sugar Corporation, Sugar Cane Growers Council and Sugar Industry Tribunal for further clarifications on the implementation and disbursement of the fuel subsidy.

Meanwhile, Hon. Tunabuna is urgently requesting all the sugarcane farmers, lorry operators, mechanical harvesters and tractor operators and the sugar factory to commence with the sugarcane harvesting and cane crushing.

The Ministry is committed to the sugarcane sector and will ensure that sustainability of the industry is maintained in the long-term.

20/06/2026

Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Sakiasi Ditoka shared insights from his recent trip to Australia, where he represented Fiji and explored new investment opportunities. He also highlighted the growing confidence of former Fijian citizens in investing back into the country.

20/06/2026

📣 *Health Reminder: Cervical Cancer Screening*

Female employees between the ages of 30 to 59 years, based at the Ministry of Health & Medical Services HQ in Suva, grabbed the opportunity yesterday to attend a Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Cervical Cancer Screening conducted at their work premises.

An HPV (Human Papillomavirus) test is a screening that checks cells for the presence of the virus that causes cervical cancer and other HPV-related cancers. It looks directly for the virus's DNA or RNA, rather than searching for physical symptoms or abnormal cells.

The HPV Test is a self swab methodology using HPV gold standard testing and results can be available within an hour.

HPV testing was launched in August last year and is being carried out divisional hospitals and health care facilities around the country.

So far the Ministry through the Family Health Unit has already passed 25% screening targets since August last year.

20/06/2026

The Ministry of Agriculture's Open Day highlighted the extensive scientific research undertaken at Koronivia Research Station to develop new rice varieties for Fiji. Senior Research Officer Irene Roshika Chand explained that it takes between eight and nine years of rigorous testing and evaluation before a new rice variety can be recommended to farmers, ensuring it can withstand Fiji's unique growing conditions.
Researchers assess imported rice varieties from countries such as India and the Philippines for their adaptability, yield performance and resilience against challenges including drought, salinity, strong winds, pests and diseases. Trials are conducted across multiple locations, as success in other countries does not guarantee suitability under Fiji's climate and environmental conditions.
Ms Chand said the research plays a vital role in strengthening Fiji's food security and climate resilience. Despite challenges such as extreme weather, pest outbreaks and disease pressure, scientists continue working with plant protection specialists to develop reliable and productive rice varieties. She emphasized that every successful variety released to farmers represents years of scientific effort, collaboration and commitment to supporting the future of agriculture in Fiji.

19/06/2026

🌱📈 **FIJI'S AGRICULTURAL EXPORTS HIT RECORD HIGH!** 🇫🇯

Fiji's fresh and frozen agricultural exports (excluding sugar) reached a historic **$187.2 million in 2025** — a remarkable **17.1% increase** from 2024 and the highest level recorded since 2013! 🎉

Key highlights:
✅ Exports increased to 16,720 tonnes
✅ Agricultural trade deficit reduced
✅ Kava remained Fiji’s top export, earning $79.1 million
✅ Exports to China surged to $17.5 million
✅ Strong growth in kava, turmeric and egg exports

Minister for Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry, Hon. Tomasi Tunabuna, thanked farmers, exporters, processors and industry partners for their hard work and dedication in driving this achievement. 👨‍🌾🚜

“This milestone belongs to everyone working across Fiji’s agricultural sector. Together, we are creating jobs, strengthening rural communities and growing our economy.” 🇫🇯💚

🌱

19/06/2026

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka officiated as Chief Guest at the Passout Parade for the Basic Recruits Course Batch 69 of the Fiji Police Academy at the Nasova Ground (19th June, 2026).

19/06/2026

NASAULEVU TOURISM MASTERPLAN LAUNCHED

The Nasaulevu Integrated Tourism Development Masterplan Booklet was officially launched at Navoci Village in Nadi, marking a significant milestone for the Vanua of Nakovacake and setting the foundation for a landowner-led tourism development initiative with national significance.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Hon. Viliame Gavoka, said the Masterplan demonstrated how investment, cultural preservation and community participation could advance together, describing it as a potential model for landowner-led tourism development in Fiji.

“Nasaulevu has the potential to become an important addition to Fiji’s tourism portfolio. More importantly, it has the potential to become a national model for landowner-led tourism development,” he said.

The 747-acre Nasaulevu Island, located opposite Denarau Port Marina and near Fantasy Island, is situated within one of Fiji’s most established tourism corridors and offers significant tourism and investment opportunities.

DPM Gavoka said the Masterplan places the Vanua of Nakovacake at the centre of the development process, ensuring landowners are active partners in decision-making, governance and long-term stewardship.

“Landowners must have the opportunity to participate meaningfully in developments taking place on their land and to benefit from the value those developments create,” he said.

He commended the Nakovacake Development Trust and the three Yavusa of Nakovacake for their leadership, and acknowledged the partnership between the Fiji National Provident Fund, international consultancy firm ARUP and the Asian Development Bank, which provided US$400,000 (about $1.2 million) to support preparation of the Masterplan.

The project aligns closely with the National Sustainable Tourism Framework 2024–2034 and has the potential to generate employment and business opportunities for surrounding communities.

“A development of this scale can create direct employment in construction, hospitality, tourism operations, administration and management.”

Hon. Gavoka officially launched the Masterplan alongside Asian Development Bank Regional Director Ms Azusa Sato and congratulated all partners involved in bringing the project to fruition.

VIDEO LINK⬇️⬇️⬇️
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RW45b7efmCM

19/06/2026

PRESIDENT RECEIVES ITATAU FROM FIJI RUGBY TEAMS AHEAD OF INTERNATIONAL CAMPAIGNS

‘Stay focused and give your best for Fiji.’

These were the words of encouragement from the President of the Republic of Fiji, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, as he received the iTatau from the Fiji Rugby Under-20 and Flying Fijians teams at the State House today (19:06:26). Prime Minister Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka was also present at the traditional presentation.

President Lalabalavu encouraged the players, who will be travelling to Georgia and Wales, to remain strong, play to the best of their abilities, and proudly represent their vanua and their country.

Conveying his best wishes on behalf of the nation, the President acknowledged the players, team management, the Chairman of the Fiji Rugby Union, and the coaching staff for their hard work and sacrifice.

“Play your hearts out. All the training and development done is to prepare you for this moment. All that is left now is the game and your performance,” he said.

The Fiji Rugby Under-20 side will represent Fiji at the World Rugby Under-20 Championship in Georgia from 27 June to 18 July, while the Flying Fijians will compete in the Nations Championship, which begins on 4 July in Cardiff, Wales.

19/06/2026

PM RABUKA URGES NEW POLICE RECRUITS TO UPHOLD INTEGRITY AND STRENGTHEN PUBLIC TRUST

A total of 150 men and women today graduated from the Fiji Police Force Recruit Course Batch 69 during a pass-out parade held at the Nasova Grounds in Nasese, Suva.

Prime Minister Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka officiated at the event and congratulated the new recruits for their commitment, discipline, and perseverance.

“The uniform you wear represents not power, but responsibility,” Prime Minister Rabuka told the graduates.

“You are now guardians of public trust, protectors of the rule of law, and custodians of the principles that underpin a safe, stable, and democratic society.”

The Prime Minister acknowledged the successful completion of 132 days of rigorous training by the recruits, noting that the programme had tested their discipline, resilience, judgement, and character.

He emphasised that policing remains central to Fiji’s national development agenda, particularly as the country faces increasingly complex security challenges, including illicit drug trafficking, transnational organised crime, cybercrime, and financial offences.

“A safe and secure society is fundamental to economic growth, social stability, investor confidence, and public wellbeing. Without security, development cannot flourish,” he said.

Prime Minister Rabuka stressed the importance of integrity, accountability, and professionalism in policing, reminding the new officers that public confidence is earned through ethical conduct and consistent service.

At the outset, Hon. Rabuka reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to strengthening the Fiji Police Force through enhanced training, professional development, technological upgrades, and legislative reforms, including the ongoing review and modernisation of policing legislation.

He also acknowledged the valuable contribution of development partners, particularly the New Zealand Police through the Fiji Police Partnership Programme under the Duavata Partnership Agreement, for supporting leadership development, operational effectiveness, and organisational resilience within the Force.

Prime Minister Rabuka further recognised the participation of officers from the Tuvalu Police Service in the training programme, noting that their involvement reflects the strength of regional partnerships and a shared Pacific commitment to peace, security, and stability.

In closing, he encouraged the new officers to serve with integrity, humility, and courage.

“Treat every citizen with dignity and respect, uphold the rule of law without fear or favour, and never lose sight of the trust that the people of Fiji have placed in you,” Prime Minister Rabuka added.

Additional photos: Fiji Police Force

19/06/2026

PUBLIC SERVICE BROADCASTING GRANT REVIEW PRESENTED TO MINISTRY

As part of efforts to ensure value for money and effective service delivery, the Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection’s Poverty Monitoring Unit (PMU) team today (19/06/2026) presented Minister for Information, Hon. Lynda Tabuya, with the preliminary findings of its review of the Public Service Broadcasting Grant provided to Fiji’s four major broadcasters.

A significant portion of the Ministry’s budget is allocated to the Fiji Broadcasting Corporation, Fiji Television Limited, Mai TV and Communications Fiji Limited (CFL) to support content that educates, informs and serves the public. The grant helps extend broadcasting services to remote communities, preserve cultural heritage and provide critical information during emergencies and natural disasters.

Minister Tabuya acknowledged the PMU team's work and noted that the review was particularly important following the transition from a department to a stand-alone ministry last year.

The preliminary findings highlighted the importance of the grant to broadcasters, the benefits it delivers to the public, and the challenges faced by media organisations in meeting public service broadcasting obligations. The review also presented recommendations for the Ministry to consider in future evaluations, policy development, collaboration and ongoing analysis of the grant’s effectiveness.

The PMU team included Director Mereoni Tuimuru, Senior Research Officer (Policy) Neumi Tabuyaqona, Senior Economic Planning Officer Manasa Davetanivalu, Economic Planning Officer Semi Koroi, Executive Officer – REACH Elenoa Koroinasau, and Technical Assistant – REACH Basilica Mataitini.

Fiji Government

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