THE Coalition Government’s promise of economic prosperity during the 2022 general election remains unfulfilled two years later, says Independent Member of Parliament Shalen Kumar.
He told Parliament the high cost of living was one of the most pressing issues facing Fijians.
“Families are struggling to put food on the table, pay electricity bills, and meet traditional obligations,” he said.
Mr Kumar said the rising prices of basic goods and services were pushing more Fijians into poverty.
He added that the buying power of the majority of Fijians had plunged to an unacceptable level.
“We in Opposition are working hard to highlight the plight of the people and keep the Government accountable.
“The now overinflated government is controlled by the Minister of Finance, whose policies have not provided any relief to the people.”
Mr Kumar said investor confidence was at an all-time low with the recent gross domestic investment standing at 12.8 per cent.
“Economic growth means little if it does not translate into tangible improvements in the lives of our people. We must also address the proto-economic context.
“The steady rise in the cost of goods has fuelled an increase in tax revenue, but this has been at the expense of ordinary Fijians.”
Mr Kumar said families were now forced to stretch their budgets when goods not on the VAT-exempt list had dramatic price increases.
“While some essential goods are zero-rated for VAT, the rising cost of other non-exempt goods continues to strain household budgets.”
Mr Kumar called for the Government to expand the list of Zero-rated VAT goods to include more essential items while reducing the overall VAT rate to provide immediate relief.
“This will help alleviate the financial burden on families and ensure that they can afford necessities without sacrificing their well-being.
“The President spoke of economic growth and development, but we must ensure that this growth creates opportunities for all Fijians.”
