Finance Sector Managerial Staff Association general secretary Sailesh Naidu has defended the Fiji Trades Union Congress’ proposed $8 living wage, saying the call reflects the harsh economic realities faced by ordinary workers across Fiji.
In a statement, Mr Naidu said criticisms of the proposed living wage failed to recognise the daily struggles confronting many working families.
“The call for an $8 living wage is not an unrealistic demand; it is a necessary response to the continuously rising cost of living affecting working families across the country,” he said.
Mr Naidu said workers were battling increasing food prices, rent, transport costs, utility bills and school expenses while wages in many sectors remained stagnant.
“Many full-time workers continue to live from pay cheque to pay cheque despite contributing significantly to the economy,” he said.
He argued that the FTUC proposal was based on ensuring workers could meet basic needs and live with dignity.
“A living wage is not about luxury — it is about ensuring that workers can meet their basic needs without falling into debt or poverty,” Mr Naidu said.
The statement comes amid growing debate over the proposed $8 living wage following concerns raised by employer groups over affordability and economic sustainability.
Mr Naidu said arguments that businesses could not sustain higher wages must be weighed against the burden workers had carried through years of rising inflation and declining purchasing power.
“For years, many employers have benefited from low labour costs while workers absorbed rising inflation and declining purchasing power,” he said.
“Economic growth must benefit workers as well, not only businesses.”
He also pointed to international discussions on living wages, saying fair wages contributed to stronger consumer spending, higher productivity, reduced staff turnover and more stable communities.
“When workers earn decent incomes, the wider economy benefits,” he said.
Mr Naidu said the FTUC should be commended for initiating national discussions on fair wages and social justice instead of having the proposal dismissed outright.
“Stakeholders should engage constructively to determine how Fiji can progressively achieve wages that reflect the true cost of living while supporting long-term economic stability,” he said.
“The reality is simple: no worker in Fiji who works full-time should remain trapped in poverty. The $8 living wage proposal is about fairness, dignity, and building a more equitable future for all workers.”
