Latest news with #SeemaShandil
Scoop
4 days ago
- Business
- Scoop
Fiji: 2025/2026 National Budget—A Socially Responsive Budget
27 June The Consumer Council of Fiji welcomes the 2025/2026 National Budget as a timely and decisive response to the financial strain felt by thousands of consumers across the country. This morning's Budget announcement can be seen delivering a meaningful relief through targeted measures that address the persistent cost-of-living pressures affecting households nationwide. A major highlight of today's announcement is the reduction of Value Added Tax (VAT) from 15% to 12.5%—a move set to ease financial pressures across the economy. This cut is expected to lower prices on essential goods and services, providing much-needed relief to households struggling with rising costs. The Council has long championed a fairer, consumer-focused tax regime, and this reform marks a positive shift toward alleviating the cost-of-living crisis. Consumer Council CEO Seema Shandil described the VAT reduction as both bold and necessary. 'This VAT reduction is a bold and welcome move,' she said. 'But now, the real work begins. For a long time, when VAT was increased, retailers were quick to pass on the added cost to consumers. Yet, when taxes are reduced, those savings are not always reflected on the shelves, instead, they're often absorbed as extra profit.' To address this issue and safeguard consumer interests, the Government has announced the establishment of a National Price Monitoring Taskforce. This initiative will bring together key enforcement agencies including the Consumer Council of Fiji, the Fiji Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC), and the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS). The taskforce will be responsible for ensuring that the tax and duty reductions are properly implemented by retailers and that consumers see the benefits of these changes in real terms. Ms. Shandil affirmed the Council's commitment to this effort, stating, 'We will be working shoulder-to-shoulder with our counterparts at FCCC, FRCS, and the Ministry to strictly monitor retail pricing. This is not a time for complacency. The Fijian people deserve to feel the full benefit of these decisions, and we will ensure that happens.' The Budget also includes significant reductions in import duties for a range of essential food items. Chicken portions and offals such as giblets and liver will now attract a reduced duty of 15 percent, down from 32 percent. Duty on fresh fruits and vegetables — including tomatoes, cabbage, lettuce, cucumber, eggplant, pumpkin, bananas, avocados, mandarins, watermelons and pawpaw remains at five percent. Other fruits and vegetables such as apples, carrots, grapes, mushrooms, celery, broccoli, and nuts will also remain duty free. Potatoes, garlic, onion, tea, and cooking oil will continue to be duty-free as well. Meanwhile, frozen fish, including salmon, and canned fish products will also see duty eliminated entirely. Ms. Shandil emphasized that these reductions have the potential to significantly improve household nutrition and food affordability. 'These are real changes with the potential to impact the nutritional security of families. With key staples now cheaper to import, we expect retailers to bring down prices accordingly, and we will be watching closely.' In addition to food and tax relief measures, the Budget also includes targeted support in other areas that directly affect consumers. A ten percent bus fare subsidy can also be seen to help ease the financial burden on daily commuters and support lower-income earners who rely heavily on public transportation. This subsidy acts like a small "pay raise" by reducing their cost of living. A 10% reduction directly cuts daily transport costs, leaving more money for other expenses. Furthermore, a VAT refund scheme has been announced for residential construction projects valued up to $120,000. This measure is expected to reduce construction costs and encourage more families to invest in building or upgrading their homes. The newly implemented progressive measures, designed to support vulnerable populations and foster healthier living, represent a positive step forward. A 5% monthly increase for social welfare recipients and government pensioners will enhance financial resilience amid rising living costs. Simultaneously, the elimination of the 15% duty on no-sugar-added juices makes nutritious beverages more affordable, encouraging healthier consumption habits. Conversely, the new 15% duty on unhealthy processed snacks like puffed chips serves as a deterrent against excessive consumption of these foods. Together, these policies demonstrate a balanced approach to economic relief and public health improvement, helping build a more secure and health-conscious society. Whilst the Consumer Council reiterates its support for the budget's direction but stresses that the implementation phase will be critical, retailers are urged to pass on every cent of the savings to their customers. The Council will not hesitate to take action against non-compliance. Consumers are also encouraged to remain vigilant and report any instances where price reductions are not being honoured after the measures take effect. Complaints can be made through the Council's toll-free helpline 155 or via its email platform complaints@
Scoop
23-06-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Fiji: Unfair Rental Car Practices Still Prevalent
Serious complaints against rogue rental car companies have prompted a renewed warning to the public, as the Consumer Council of Fiji expresses alarm over increasingly aggressive and unethical behaviour by operators. Since 2020, the Council has received 163 complaints relating to rental car services, with a combined monetary value of over $97,000. However, the recent nature of complaints has grown more troubling, prompting the Council to once again warn consumers. A key concern is the delay of refunds and the exploitation of consumer trust. Many operators are refusing to return bonds on time, instead withholding them indefinitely under the pretext of waiting for traffic fines, leaving consumers financially stranded for months. What's equally concerning is the way consumers are treated when they raise concerns. Reports describe rental company staff who are evasive, verbally abusive, and entirely dismissive of complaints. Communication often breaks down once payment is made, and some consumers have even been blocked from contacting the operator altogether. This is not just bad service, it is deliberate mistreatment. Another recurring issue is the refusal by some operators to issue receipts or written agreements. Without documentation, consumers are left vulnerable, unable to prove terms or challenge unexpected deductions. These shady practices go hand-in-hand with a wider lack of accountability in how vehicles are maintained. In one recent case, a consumer hired a vehicle that broke down the very next day. The company told him to carry out repairs at his own expense with a vague promise of reimbursement. Despite following through and providing receipts, he has yet to be compensated. Scams are also proliferating, with some unregistered operators luring victims via social media or informal platforms, often with no physical office or point of contact. These scams have led to financial losses and have left some consumers without a vehicle despite paying upfront. Most of the complaints received so far have come from Fijian consumers, raising legitimate fears about what could be happening to tourists who may not know where to turn for help. Council CEO Seema Shandil said the behaviour of some rental car operators is not only unethical but reflects a growing culture of consumer exploitation. 'It is unacceptable that consumers are being treated in such a disgraceful manner, from being ignored and harassed to being denied refunds or made to pay for repairs on poorly maintained vehicles. These operators are taking advantage of weak enforcement and a lack of consumer awareness, and it must stop.' She added that the Council will continue its collaboration to ensure fairness in the industry. 'Together with the LTA and the Fiji Rental Car Association, we will continue to take strong action against those who repeatedly flout consumer protection laws. The time for leniency is over, these practices are harming livelihoods, damaging trust, and risking the safety of consumers.' Consumers are strongly advised to be cautious when hiring vehicles, to insist on proper documentation, avoid informal cash transactions, and verify that the business is licensed. Anyone who has fallen victim to unethical rental practices should contact the Consumer Council by calling the toll-free number 155 or by emailing Complaints@
Scoop
17-06-2025
- Health
- Scoop
Consumer Council Of Fiji Launches Label Logic Report Urging Stronger Labelling Standards For Healthier Consumer Choices
Press Release – Consumer Council of Fiji The Label Logic report, which draws from a wide-ranging study including policy reviews, consumer surveys, and industry interviews, exposes the significant barriers Fijians face when trying to make informed food choices. The Consumer Council of Fiji today officially launched its much-anticipated research report titled 'Label Logic: How Effective Labelling Policies Can Influence Better Consumer Choices in Fiji' at the Southern Cross Hotel in Suva. The event, developed in partnership with the Anne Fransen Fund and Consumers International, was officiated by the Honourable Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, SMEs and Communications, Hon. Manoa Kamikamica. It brought together key stakeholders from across the public and private sectors—including government ministries, food industry representatives, health professionals, development partners, civil society organisations, and members of the media—for a robust dialogue on improving food labelling standards in Fiji. In her opening remarks, Consumer Council CEO Ms. Seema Shandil emphasised that labelling is not a niche issue but a matter of public health and consumer rights. 'A label should be a tool for empowerment—not confusion. Our findings reveal that even educated consumers struggle to make sense of food labels, while those in rural or disadvantaged communities are often left completely in the dark,' she stated. 'This report is not just timely—it is essential.' The Label Logic report, which draws from a wide-ranging study including policy reviews, consumer surveys, and industry interviews, exposes the significant barriers Fijians face when trying to make informed food choices. The report finds that many labels use technical or misleading terms, are difficult to read, and often lack critical information—ultimately failing to serve their intended purpose. In launching the report, Hon. Kamikamica emphasised the Government's support for consumer rights and health protection. 'This report provides a blueprint for reform which is grounded in global best practice, backed by evidence, and shaped by the lived realities of Fijian consumers. It calls for front-of-pack warning labels. Standardised nutritional tables,' he said. 'And to those who argue that change is expensive, I say this: The cost of reform pales in comparison to the cost of inaction, measured in amputations, in dialysis, in lost productivity, and in preventable deaths.' Among its key recommendations, the report calls for the adoption of front-of-pack warning labels, standardised nutrition panels, stricter oversight on marketing claims, and public education to improve food label literacy. These reforms aim to make food labels easier to understand, more transparent, and useful to all Fijians. The Council also announced that the report will serve as the foundation for a nationwide consumer awareness campaign aimed at improving understanding of food labels and encouraging healthier food choices. 'This is not about punishing businesses,' Ms. Shandil added. 'It is about lifting standards—so that every Fijian, no matter where they live or what they earn, has access to clear, honest information about the food they consume.' The Consumer Council of Fiji thanks all stakeholders and partners who contributed to the successful launch of the report and calls on the public to support this movement for stronger, fairer, and more transparent food labelling practices.
Scoop
17-06-2025
- Health
- Scoop
Consumer Council Of Fiji Launches Label Logic Report Urging Stronger Labelling Standards For Healthier Consumer Choices
The Consumer Council of Fiji today officially launched its much-anticipated research report titled 'Label Logic: How Effective Labelling Policies Can Influence Better Consumer Choices in Fiji' at the Southern Cross Hotel in Suva. The event, developed in partnership with the Anne Fransen Fund and Consumers International, was officiated by the Honourable Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, SMEs and Communications, Hon. Manoa Kamikamica. It brought together key stakeholders from across the public and private sectors—including government ministries, food industry representatives, health professionals, development partners, civil society organisations, and members of the media—for a robust dialogue on improving food labelling standards in Fiji. In her opening remarks, Consumer Council CEO Ms. Seema Shandil emphasised that labelling is not a niche issue but a matter of public health and consumer rights. 'A label should be a tool for empowerment—not confusion. Our findings reveal that even educated consumers struggle to make sense of food labels, while those in rural or disadvantaged communities are often left completely in the dark,' she stated. 'This report is not just timely—it is essential.' The Label Logic report, which draws from a wide-ranging study including policy reviews, consumer surveys, and industry interviews, exposes the significant barriers Fijians face when trying to make informed food choices. The report finds that many labels use technical or misleading terms, are difficult to read, and often lack critical information—ultimately failing to serve their intended purpose. Advertisement - scroll to continue reading In launching the report, Hon. Kamikamica emphasised the Government's support for consumer rights and health protection. 'This report provides a blueprint for reform which is grounded in global best practice, backed by evidence, and shaped by the lived realities of Fijian consumers. It calls for front-of-pack warning labels. Standardised nutritional tables,' he said. 'And to those who argue that change is expensive, I say this: The cost of reform pales in comparison to the cost of inaction, measured in amputations, in dialysis, in lost productivity, and in preventable deaths.' Among its key recommendations, the report calls for the adoption of front-of-pack warning labels, standardised nutrition panels, stricter oversight on marketing claims, and public education to improve food label literacy. These reforms aim to make food labels easier to understand, more transparent, and useful to all Fijians. The Council also announced that the report will serve as the foundation for a nationwide consumer awareness campaign aimed at improving understanding of food labels and encouraging healthier food choices. 'This is not about punishing businesses,' Ms. Shandil added. 'It is about lifting standards—so that every Fijian, no matter where they live or what they earn, has access to clear, honest information about the food they consume.' The Consumer Council of Fiji thanks all stakeholders and partners who contributed to the successful launch of the report and calls on the public to support this movement for stronger, fairer, and more transparent food labelling practices.
Scoop
03-06-2025
- Scoop
Fiji: Calls For Urgent Review Of E-Ticketing System Challenges
Press Release – Consumer Council of Fiji The Council gathered feedback from 122 bus commuters across the three cities. While 52 percent of respondents indicated satisfaction with the e-ticketing services, 48 percent expressed frustration, citing ongoing issues that have remained unaddressed … A revealing snap survey has laid bare the growing frustration and logistical chaos surrounding Fiji's e-ticketing system for public buses, prompting calls for an urgent overhaul. The recent heightened public discourse and increasing concern over the challenges faced by consumers led the Consumer Council of Fiji to conduct a snap survey in Suva, Lautoka, and Labasa. While the sample size was small, comprising 122 participants, it included only regular bus users from three major urban centres, and it reflects a broader pattern, consistent with the complaints the Council continues to receive. The Council gathered feedback from 122 bus commuters across the three cities. While 52 percent of respondents indicated satisfaction with the e-ticketing services, 48 percent expressed frustration, citing ongoing issues that have remained unaddressed for far too long. Among the issues highlighted, several key concerns emerged: the first is a glaring lack of top up locations, especially for those living in semi-urban or rural areas, long queues at top-up locations, unreliable network connectivity, limited access to recharge points after hours (especially in rural areas), and the lack of alternative payment options when the system is down. The Council is also concerned that the discontinuation of disposable cards has left many consumers without a backup option during emergencies. Some commuters have reported being left behind when bus drivers refused to accept any alternative form of payment during system outages. While the Council recognises that accepting cash is illegal and could result in fines for both drivers and passengers, it raises an important question: what alternatives are commuters supposed to rely on when the system fails? Furthermore, one of the most persistent issues is the removal of printed receipts, which has left many consumers, particularly the elderly and those without smartphones, unable to verify fare deductions or monitor their remaining balance. In light of these findings, the Consumer Council is calling for immediate action from Vodafone Fiji and all stakeholders involved in the administration of the e-ticketing system. 'Consumers are struggling with a system that was supposed to make their lives easier,' said Seema Shandil, CEO of the Consumer Council of Fiji. 'While we fully support the growing digital economy and our collective move towards a cashless society, we cannot ignore the challenges faced by ordinary people in accessing this basic service. When the system fails, it doesn't just inconvenience people, it disrupts livelihoods. This became apparent for everyone to see during the recent nationwide disruption to the e-Transport Bus Card top-up system, where there was no backup plan in place for commuters. are urging Vodafone Fiji to address these issues urgently, transparently, and in consultation with the public.' 'The Council is particularly concerned about the disproportionate impact on elderly passengers and rural communities, who face the greatest barriers to access and the least digital support,' added Ms. Shandil. 'This is not the first-time concerns about e-ticketing have been raised. However, the Consumer Council now considers the situation urgent and unacceptable, and is calling for a national review of the system's effectiveness and fairness.' While the Council understands Vodafone has launched an app and has taken steps to rectify some of the issues, it must communicate these actions more clearly, consider the real challenges people are facing, and work towards practical, people-centred solutions. This includes launching a massive information campaign to ensure consumers are informed, empowered, and equipped to use the system confidently. 'The future of transport must be inclusive, accessible, and consumer-centred,' Ms. Shandil emphasised. 'We are calling on service providers to listen to the people who rely on these services daily and take decisive steps to fix what is broken.' Consumers facing issues with the E-ticketing services are advised to contact the Toll-Free National Consumer Helpline 155, or email complaints@
