Transport Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau has confirmed the review of the vehicle import and road usage policy is expected to conclude by the end of the year.
He gave the assurance amid growing concerns over traffic congestion across the country, particularly in the capital city.
“In terms of the vehicles, yes, that’s a concern, the number of vehicles coming in, the age, and also the standard,” Ro Filipe said, adding his ministry, in collaboration with the LTA, is currently reviewing the policy.
Key considerations include the age of vehicles, the volume of imports, and their impact on existing infrastructure.
“We cannot have an infinite number of vehicles for a finite number of kilometres of roads.
“There needs to be some sort of formula, taking into consideration the kilometres of roads, the congestion, the age of the vehicles.”
Ro Filipe said potential measures under review included limiting the number of second-hand vehicles entering the country and setting new restrictions on the age of imported vehicles.
He stressed that addressing traffic issues was a priority, not only by managing vehicle numbers but also by improving road infrastructure.
“In terms of roads, the ministry together with the Fiji Roads Authority are looking at (improvements), especially the Suva-Nausori corridor.”
A $500,000 budget has been allocated for a feasibility study to explore alternatives to the existing Suva–Nausori route, with a focus on easing congestion and improving access.
Other infrastructure developments include planned access routes into Suva via Koronivia and Wainibuku roads, as well as ongoing upgrades such as the widening of the Laqere to Laucala Beach corridor and the Lami to Suva stretch.
These works are being supported by the Government of Japan, including the construction of a four-lane bridge and plans to extend the four-lane road up to Veisari.
