Acting PM announces progressive lifting of COVID restrictions

Acting Prime Minister Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum says from tomorrow, public service vehicles can operate at full capacity, which include buses, mini-buses, carriers and taxis however the government will continue to enforce mask-wearing onboard all public service vehicles. While announcing the lifting of COVID related restrictions, Sayed-Khaiyum says indoor and outdoor sporting events, including competitive sports, may be held with spectators at 80% capacity provided those spectators wear masks.

Sayed-Khaiyum says even though the curfew is removed, nightclubs will not be allowed to operate.

He adds however, taverns, many of which used to be licensed as nightclubs, may open until 1am at 80% capacity throughout Fiji, provided that seating is properly spaced out, dancing is not allowed and all areas are well ventilated. He further says businesses, venues and houses of worship may open at full capacity, with the exception of high-risk businesses, which must operate at 80% capacity.

High-risk businesses include cinemas, bars, taverns, gyms, hairdressing and salon services, tattoo parlours and gaming venues. The Acting PM also highlighted that the careFIJI App and QR will not be required for entry into businesses and venues anymore because they are not presently relying on contact tracing as part of their COVID-19 response adding the careFIJI App may be required again in the future if the epidemiological situation changes, so please keep the app on your phone so it is easily available if needed.

Sayed-Khaiyum says the Vax Check tool is also no longer required for use by businesses given that Fiji is a highly vaccinated society.

He says however, the high-risk businesses like cinemas, bars, taverns, gyms, hairdressing and salon services, tattoo parlours and gaming venues and all Care Fiji Certified businesses will be required to check the vaccination cards of their patrons and customers.

Sayed-Khaiyum also says it is the responsibility of businesses to enforce COVID-safe behaviour on the premises and the fines for violations remain in effect.

He adds there is no more restriction on informal gatherings, including gatherings at home, effective immediately. Sayed-Khaiyum says they have also developed clearer guidance on where masks are required to be worn and the full guidance on mask-wearing will be published online.