The Consumer Council of Fiji states it will be demanding a thorough review of the pricing strategy from Fiji’s two major mobile network operators on changes to some prepaid data plans.
The Council states a former $15 plan which initially lasted for 15 days, has become a $16 plan, increasing the price for the same 15-day period. It adds, most recently, the validity has been reduced to just 14 days while the price remains at $16.
The weekly $8 plan initially valid for 7 days, was changed to a 6-day plan, and has now changed to a $9 plan, valid for only 5 days, said the Council.
The Council adds the well-known $25 plan, previously regarded as the go-to 30-day option, now offers only 20 days. To access a full 30-day plan, consumers are being directed to a new $35 option, representing a significant cost increase for the same timeframe.
The Consumer Council states one internet provider is phasing out data rollover on several plans. This means that users who have paid for data but haven’t fully used it will now see their remaining balance simply expire.
“This isn’t just about notifications, it’s about the systematic reduction of value for consumers,” said Seema Shandil, CEO of the Consumer Council of Fiji.
“Network providers have changed most of their data plans multiple times in a relatively short span, and every change follows the same pattern: less for more. Consumers are feeling squeezed, confused, and increasingly powerless to keep up.”
She said a formal submission will be made to the Telecommunications Authority of Fiji and Ministry of Trade Cooperatives MSME’s and Communications, urging them to investigate whether these practices comply with fair trading principles and whether further consumer protections are needed in the telecommunications sector.
“Mobile data is essential, and most people in Fiji rely on these weekly, fortnightly, or monthly mobile data plans.”
“That makes fairness in pricing a matter of public interest, not just a business decision.”
“These service providers must stop treating their customer base as a captive market and start showing a commitment to stability, consistency, and fairness.”
“Consumers deserve stable, equitable plans that respect their needs and budgets.”
