The Government of India, recognised as the world’s largest producer of generic medicines formally handedover a consignment of Anti-Retroviral (ARV) drugs weighing more than three tonnes to the Government of Fiji.
The move reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to strengthening public health cooperation and supporting Fiji’s efforts to combat the rising incidence of HIV.
The handover ceremony took place on November 11, 2025 at the Fiji Pharmaceutical & Biomedical Services Centre (FPBS) attended by High Commissioner of India to Fiji, Suneet Mehta, and Fiji’s Minister for Health and Medical Services Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu, Assistant Minister for Health and Medical Services, Penioni Ravunawa, UNAIDS Ambassador, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, Head of Fiji Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Services, Jeremaia Mataika, along with senior officials from Health ministry, FPBS and the commission.
This donation of life-saving ARV medication, a critical component of the national HIV response, is delivered as a grant assistant from the people and Government of India, marking the largest single consignment of medicines ever gifted by India to Fiji. It aims to augment the current supply and ensure uninterrupted treatment access for people living with HIV in Fiji, particularly in light of the recent surge in reported cases. India had donated Anti – Retroviral Drugs and other medical supplies to Fiji in 2021, 2022 & 2023.
Mr Mehta in his remarks, stated that the donation was part of the expanding bilateral cooperation between India and Fiji in the health sector. The partnership also includes the establishment of a 100-bed super-speciality hospital in Suva, provision of affordable generic medicines under the Jan Aushadhi Scheme, organising of Jaipur Foot Camp, etc.
India is recognised as the world’s largest producer of generic medicines, including two-thirds of the world’s ARV drugs, playing a pivotal role in the global fight against AIDS by improving access to affordable treatment worldwide.
This gesture underscores India’s role as a trusted development and humanitarian partner, committed to supporting the health and well-being of the Global South, especially in the Indo-Pacific region.
Dr. Lalabalavu expressed profound gratitude to the Government and people of India. He said the timely arrival of life-saving drugs was invaluable. It helps Fiji maintain continuity of care for its citizens living with HIV and significantly strengthens Fiji’s capacity to implement the national HIV Outbreak Response Plan.
He expressed deep appreciation of India’s continued support, which has consistently proven critical in enhancing Fiji’s health care system and saving lives.
The consignment is expected to be immediately distributed across Fiji to ensure that all patients receive their essential medication without disruption.
The latest assistance in the health sector underlines India’s strong commitment to working together and supporting Fiji through all times.
Boxes of ARV Drugs in Suva. Picture: SUPPLIED
FPBS staff with senior officials of High Commission of India Suva and
Ministry of Health and Medical Services with the consignment. Picture: SUPPLIED
