THE increase in tax-free zones in Rakiraki will provide an environment more conducive for business growth, says prominent businessman George Shiu Raj.
“We know we are going through a very hard time,” Mr Raj said.
“The cost of living is very high in Fiji, that’s the reality and also, we are requesting the Government for a tax-free zone.”
Mr Raj said the previous government had encouraged tax-free zones, “but the problem is the documents to provide to the Government”.
“This is the time when the Government has to intervene and be very flexible to the developers and investors that come over to the province of Ra.”
He said the population of Rakiraki was struggling.
“We are doing our very best, we pay taxes to the Government and that is what I am trying to emphasise.
“I want to tell the Government that the tax-free zone is very important for more development to come into the province of Ra.”
He said certain large-scale businesses have invested significantly in Rakiraki’s tourism sector despite the town’s location.
“We are far away from the airport, so that is why I am saying to the Government, if they provide the tax-free zone to these areas for more development, more business communities will come over and develop the province of Ra.”
Note: This article was first published on the print version of the Fiji Times dated April 10, 2025
