The 2026-2027 National Budget has failed to provide innovative solutions to address the rising cost of living and the growing financial pressure faced by ordinary Fijians, says Opposition MP Hem Chand.
Speaking during the budget debate in Parliament on Monday, Mr Chand said many citizens he had spoken to were deeply concerned about increasing household expenses, employment challenges and economic uncertainty.
“It is rather unfortunate that the Coalition Government’s 2026-2027 budget offers very little innovative measures to address high cost of living for ordinary Fijians who are being pushed into poverty,” he said.
He said consultations with people from different sectors showed widespread disappointment over the Government’s economic policies.
“Since the budget announcement, I have engaged with countless Fijians from all walks of life.
“The overwhelming sentiment is one of deep disappointment and profound concern, particularly regarding high food costs, reduction in the compulsory FNPF employer contribution from 10 per cent to 8 per cent, skill crisis, brain drain and minimum wage.”
Mr Chand claimed many people believed the budget lacked direction and long-term planning.
“They universally echo the sentiment that this budget lacks vision, proper planning, and tragically, they fear it will inflict further hardship on our children in the years to come.”
He also criticised the Government’s decision to increase VAT to 15 per cent in 2023, saying it had placed additional pressure on families.
“According to Fijians, the 15 per cent VAT imposed in 2023 has done irreparable damage in the last three years and had great impact on Fijians’ livelihoods.”
