Every Fijian regardless of their language or background will now be able to better understand the 2026-27 National Budget after the launch of the Citizens’ Guide to the National Budget in English, Hindi and iTaukei.
During the launch at the Ministry of Finance office in Suva on Wednesday, Minister for Finance Esrom Immanuel said the Citizens’ Budget will enhance transparency and accountability.
He said publishing the Citizens’ Budget in three main languages will enable every citizen to understand the government’s priorities and appreciate how public resources are being invested to improve their lives.
“The Citizens’ Budget distils key information into a concise and reader-friendly 20-page publication,” Mr Immanuel said.
“It outlines the government’s revenue and expenditure plans, major policy priorities in infrastructure, health, education and social protection and the key economic forecast as well as the medium-term fiscal strategy,” he said.
Mr Immanuel said the 2026-27 national budget was formulated during a period of considerable economic uncertainty.
“The global fuel and energy crisis that placed significant pressure on the economy, public finances and the cost of living, requiring the government to make careful and responsible policy choices.
“At the same time, government had to make provision for several major national priorities that could not be deferred including funding for the general election, constitutional referendum, the national census and the commencement of major capital projects that are critical to Fiji’s long-term development and future prosperity,” he said.
“This reflects a disciplined and balanced fiscal approach, one that continues to invest in Fiji’s long-term development while safeguarding fiscal sustainability,” he said.
He said the government has looked at the welfare of the people and the economy to ensure the economy keeps functioning despite the crisis faced.
