THE Government is hoping a major tax incentive announced in the 2026-2027 National Budget will drive greater private sector investment in sports development across Fiji.
One of the biggest sports measures in the budget is the reduction of the minimum sponsorship threshold for the 200 per cent tax deduction scheme from $250,000 to $100,000, making it more accessible to a wider range of businesses.
Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru welcomed the initiative, saying it would encourage more companies to invest in sport and help develop Fiji’s next generation of athletes.
“That’s something that has been put together to attract more people to come on board and help grow sports in Fiji,” Saukuru said.
The Ministry of Youth and Sports received an allocation of $23.1 million for the 2026-2027 financial year, a slight decrease from last year’s $23.4 million.
Despite the reduction, Saukuru said the ministry was satisfied with the funding, acknowledging the economic pressures facing Government.
“We’re happy with what we have. We can’t complain,” he said.
“It’s almost the same as last year’s budget, and we’ll do whatever we can with what has been given to us. It’s a global crisis and we are happy with what the Minister for Finance has allocated.”
Saukuru said tax incentives for companies investing in sporting infrastructure would also support Government’s long-term vision to improve facilities nationwide.
The ministry’s priorities include upgrading the HFC Bank Stadium and other sporting venues, while plans are also in place to build a new international-standard stadium in the Western Division.
“We want to renovate the national stadium and other grounds as well. We also want to build a new stadium in the West capable of hosting international matches,” he said.
He said improved facilities would strengthen Fiji’s ability to host more international sporting events after successfully staging tournaments.
The minister also reaffirmed Government’s commitment to grassroots sport, confirming funding for a new multi-purpose sports court in Nadera.
“We’re targeting Nadera because it’s currently a red-zone area. We want our young people there to spend more time in sport, keep busy and stay away from criminal activities,” he said.
Saukuru also welcomed continued Government support for the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua and urged businesses to take advantage of the expanded tax incentives, saying investment in sport was an investment in Fiji’s youth and future.
He also encouraged national sporting organisations to remain focused despite tight funding.
“My message is to be thankful that something has been given to us. We just need to stay focused on what we want to achieve this year,” he said.
