Fiji’s Minister for Commerce, Trade, Tourism, and Transport has stressed the importance of creating a safe environment for businesses to reopen in this pandemic.
In a press statement released by the ministry on its website, Minister Faiyaz Koya said from November 11, 2021, clubs, bars (within and outside of municipal markets), taverns and gaming venues would safely reopen for business, in accordance with the Ministry of Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport’s protocols.
“At the end of the day, what we want and what we should strive towards is sustainability and resilience. How we invest in our workplaces and in our people today, will reflect on our development in years to come. We should always remember the duty of care we have to our customers, to Fijians,” Mr Koya said.
“There is a lot at stake. With borders opening soon, we’ll have thousands of visitors back in Fiji. These visitors aren’t only looking for safe hotels, but safe Fijian experiences from restaurants to retail.”
According to the ministry, in order for clubs, bars, taverns and gaming venues to open, a ‘Permit to Operate’ will be required, for which applications can be done online the COVID Pass Portal: www.covidpass.mcttt.gov.fj and applicants are required to submit all relevant documents, including agreed protocols, and employers and employees Vaccination Cards with consent by November 30, 2021.
It was also highlighted that since these businesses involve high customer interaction and close contact, these services were only available for eligible persons who were fully vaccinated.
According to the ministry, businesses must also apply for the VAX-Check tool using the same portal used to apply for the careFIJI QR code, that is, www.checkin.digitalfiji.gov.fj.
Businesses may use the same login credentials, enter the portal and apply for VAX-Check credentials.
The ministry has also deployed COVID Safe ambassadors who would closely observe and advise businesses on mandatory minimum parameters for safely operating businesses.
Businesses have also been warned not to breach the protocols or they would be fined or face prosecution.
