The Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) has approved a temporary increase in regulated taxi fares, citing the need to protect the viability of Fiji’s taxi industry as operators grapple with rising global fuel prices.
The temporary adjustment, which takes effect from July 1, increases the drop charge for general taxis from 10 cents to 14 cents per 100 metres, while leaving all other fare components unchanged.
Flag fall and waiting time charges will remain at existing levels, with the adjustment targeting only the fare component most directly affected by higher fuel costs.
The decision follows a sharp increase in international fuel prices linked to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which have pushed up operating costs for transport providers in Fiji.
FCCC Chief Executive Officer Senikavika Jiuta said the Commission recognised the important role taxis play in Fiji’s public transport system and the livelihoods they support.
“Like the bus industry, taxis are an essential public transport service relied upon by thousands of Fijians every day. They provide an important source of income for many families and play a critical role in connecting people to work, education, healthcare, and other essential services,” Ms Jiuta said.
She said the Commission acted after receiving reports that some taxi operators were considering reducing services or temporarily ceasing operations because of rising fuel costs.
“In recent weeks, FCCC has received reports that some taxi operators were considering reducing services and, in some instances, temporarily ceasing operations due to the increasing cost pressures caused by rising fuel prices. This highlighted the need for timely intervention to ensure services remain available to the public.”
Following an independent assessment of industry costs, FCCC concluded that a temporary increase to the distance-based fare component was necessary to allow operators to continue providing reliable services while balancing the interests of consumers.
“Our assessment focused specifically on the direct impact of fuel price increases on taxi operations. The approved adjustment reflects only the necessary increase linked to fuel costs, ensuring transparency, fairness, and sustainability,” Ms Jiuta said.
Under the revised fare schedule:
-Viti Levu taxis (excluding airport taxis) will see the drop charge increase from 10 cents to 14 cents per 100 metres, while the flag fall remains $2 during the day and $3 at night.
-Vanua Levu, Ovalau, Taveuni and Kadavu taxis will also have the drop charge increased to 14 cents per 100 metres, with flag fall remaining unchanged at $2.30 during the day and $3.30 at night.
-Nadi International Airport taxis will have their drop charge increase from 15 cents to 21 cents per 100 metres, with the $5 flag fall unchanged.
-Other airport taxis will have the drop charge increase from 10 cents to 14 cents per 100 metres, while the $7.10 flag fall remains unchanged.
Ms Jiuta stressed the measure is temporary and will remain under review.
“Should fuel prices ease and market conditions improve, FCCC will review the adjustment accordingly.”
She added that the Commission, together with members of the Fuel Monitoring Taskforce, would continue monitoring fuel prices and industry conditions and would reassess the temporary measures if international fuel prices stabilise or decline.
FCCC has also reminded consumers to report any instances of overcharging or unfair trading practices through its consumer helpdesk or regional offices.
