The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has announced the immediate lifting of the freeze on licensed taxi permits, marking a major shift in Fiji’s public transport sector.
In a public notice, LTA said the decision was made in conjunction with the Ministry of Public Works, Meteorological Services and Transport, and follows Cabinet approval in October last year.
“The freeze on Licensed Taxi (LT) Public Service Vehicle (PSV) permits has been uplifted, effective immediately,” the statement said.
The move is part of a new Taxi Framework aimed at improving fairness, transparency and accountability in the industry.
Among the key changes is the removal of the Open Taxi Rank System (OTRS), with operators required to return to their original base or stand.
The barrel draw system has also been scrapped, while a Base and Stand system will now be implemented to ensure more consistent service operations.
LTA said taxi permits will now only be issued to natural persons, and applicants must meet specific household income eligibility requirements.
“Taxi permits will be issued only to individuals, and applicants must meet prescribed income eligibility,” the notice stated.
Operators currently holding zone permits will be given time to submit their base letters to LTA as part of the transition.
“These reforms strengthen governance and promote a fair, merit-based system,” the authority said.
The changes are expected to reshape the taxi industry, with a stronger focus on regulation and service standards.
