In a bold move to address Fiji’s rising crime, drug use and HIV crisis, the Government has announced a sweeping law enforcement and public health package—including 1,000 new police officers, tougher surveillance, and a $10 million HIV response fund.
Delivering the 2025–2026 Budget today, Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad said Fiji faced a “serious growing threat” from illicit drugs and the rapid rise of HIV cases—half of which were linked to drug use and needle-sharing.
“The HIV epidemic is now a serious growing threat to Fiji. There are now approximately 7,000 HIV cases in the country,” he told Parliament. “We are determined to tackle this health emergency before it becomes an uncontrollable national crisis.”
Government will recruit 538 new police officers immediately, with a budget of $19.5 million allocated in this fiscal year as the first phase of a broader expansion. Police strength will rise to more than 6,550.
The Fiji Police Force also receives $240.3 million—an increase of $13.5 million—plus an additional $8.6 million previously approved for salary progression.
A new Ministry of Policing and a dedicated Narcotics Bureau will lead inter-agency crackdowns, while investments in patrol boats, canine units, and intelligence-sharing platforms aim to secure maritime and border controls.
To tackle underground money movement, mobile wallet users must now register with a Tax Identification Number. Asset declarations will also become mandatory for sole traders beginning 2025.
“Safety, security, and the health of our people are national priorities—and we will act decisively to uphold them,” Prof Prasad said.
