Fiji has strong potential to transform public services through digital technology, but must address key gaps in access and availability to fully benefit, according to World Bank.
The report notes that Fiji is already the most advanced country in the Pacific region in terms of digital government development, based on the World Bank’s GovTech Maturity Index.
With mobile penetration exceeding 100 percent and internet usage reaching 88 percent of the population, the foundation for digital growth is well established.
However, challenges remain in how services are delivered. The World Bank highlighted that many Fijians still rely on in-person services, with long queues observed at banks for government payments and citizens often needing to take time off work or make repeated calls to access services.
Over the past six years, the Government has introduced a range of e-services, including online birth registration, business registration, utility payments and tax services. Digital payments have also increased significantly, with mobile and internet banking transactions rising sharply and mobile money use expanding rapidly.
Despite this progress, uptake of online services remains limited. Survey data showed that only 17 percent of households accessed services online, while 83 percent continued to do so in person. The main reason cited was that services were not available online.
The findings also revealed a gap between urban and rural communities, with rural households less likely to access or use digital services. Education levels and digital literacy were also identified as key factors influencing adoption.
The World Bank said expanding digital services, improving connectivity in rural areas and raising public awareness will be critical. Initiatives such as the development of a national digital ID system are expected to further support access.
The report concludes that with the right investments and policies, Fiji can strengthen service delivery and lead digital transformation efforts in the Pacific.
