The cost of obtaining a licence to sell tabua (whale’s tooth) has raised concerns among women handicraft vendors in Lautoka, with vendors saying the fees could place additional pressure on small businesses supporting vulnerable families.
Lautoka resident Eleni Rona raised the issue during the Lautoka Women’s Forum yesterday, saying many vendors were only recently made aware of the legal requirements surrounding the sale of tabua.
Ms Rona said an awareness session was conducted at the handicraft centre, where vendors were informed about penalties for selling tabua without the required licence.
“The governing bodies has come down and conducted an awareness to us and to obtain a licence you have to pay a fee of $1000,” she said.
“And the penalty without a valid licence is $5000 and two years’ imprisonment.”
She said the licensing cost was a major concern for women vendors who often act as a link between sellers and customers, particularly those relying on tabua sales for their livelihoods.
“It’s a bit expensive for us especially in the handicraft we assist people who come to sell the tabua for their livelihood, and we have that motherly love.”
Ms Rona said the issue also affected vendors because some sellers approached them with tabua at low prices while depending on the income to meet basic household needs.
“It affects us too because they come and sell to us at a very low price and at the same time we are helping a family that needs to pay for their monthly rent, gas and put food on the table.”
She said many vendors were unaware of the licensing requirement until the awareness program was conducted this year.
“I know no one is above the law but is there any exception for us women vendors whether we can sell it or ban it.”
Responding to the concern, Minister for Women Sashi Kiran acknowledged Ms Rona’s concerns and said she would seek clarification from the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs on the matter.
