Consumer Council of Fiji CEO, Seema Shandil says the Council is commending the Government for providing consumers with direct support through various policies announced in the 2021-2022 National Budget such as unemployment support of $200 million which will ensure that consumers have the ability to access basic goods and services during these trying times.
Shandil says other incentives such as subsidy on utility payment, extending period for bill payment by four weeks, 50% decrease in traffic infringement fines, waivers such as fees for birth certificate is also welcomed by the Council as it is putting money into the pockets of Fijians and this in turn will result in higher consumer spending that will also benefit the economy.
She says the other policies announced by the Government will definitely ensure that the cost of doing business is greatly reduced and also provides supports to businesses affected by COVID-19.
Shandil says this is good news for consumers as well as this will mean businesses will be offering products and services at affordable rates, assuring that consumers are not burdened by the high cost of living.
The CEO adds the Government through the 2021-2022 National Budget has sent a very strong signal that they are committed to recovery from COVID-19 and are ready to spend money to speed recovery.
Shandil says the National Budget is bold and ensures that no one including the businesses, consumers and the most vulnerable are left behind.
