Government has directed all ministries and agencies to reduce fuel consumption from official vehicle use by around 30 per cent, as global fuel pressures continue to impact the country.
In a circular dated April 2 and obtained by The Fiji Times, Permanent Secretary for Finance Shiri Gounder said the move was part of proactive measures to manage rising costs linked to international developments.
“The recent conflict in the Middle East has triggered a major risk to global fuel supply with significant price hikes. This has translated into domestic fuel price increase which is expected to rise further,” Mr Gounder said.
He warned that broader cost pressures were expected across the economy, prompting Government to begin tightening controllable expenditure, starting with vehicle usage and fuel consumption.
“Overall cost pressures are anticipated across the board and Government is starting with proactive measures to reduce its controllable costs,” he said.
Under the directive, all agency heads have been instructed to carefully plan and monitor vehicle use to achieve the targeted reduction.
“All Agency Heads are required to carefully plan and monitor vehicle use to reduce fuel consumption by around 30 per cent,” Mr Gounder said.
The circular outlines measures including carpooling within and across ministries, walking to nearby meeting venues, and improving coordination through advance vehicle bookings.
The move comes as fuel prices rise globally, with authorities warning of further increases that could impact Government operations and the wider economy.
