Supermarkets working with FCCC to rework their business model – Bainimarama

Prime Minister, Voreqe Bainimarama says supermarkets are now working with the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission to rework their business model to focus on maintaining lower and affordable food prices for ordinary Fijians.

He has highlighted this during the debate on Consolidated Review Report of the Fiji Commerce Commission 2016-2017 and Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission 2017-2018 Annual Reports in Parliament today.

Bainimarama says through the Government’s sound economic policy and through the provision of various initiatives to the private sector, Fiji has witnessed increased competition across different industries including retail food, stores and the supermarket.

The Prime Minister further says global prices have been going up since the middle of 2021 because of higher port prices and freight cost and everyone understands that but the Opposition does not take account of these global factors that affect prices and its impact on fuel reliant sectors.

He adds these factors are beyond national control that the Opposition chose to ignore which underscores the importance of organisations like the FCCC.

Bainimarama adds resources allocated to FCCC has grown from $1.9 million to $3.3 million or 73% increase from 2016 to 2018.

The Prime Minister also says the Government is committed to growing the economy, support local businesses and improve livelihoods.

He further adds since Day 1, they have listened, noted concerns and did not stop there.

He says they have done more than just listen and have implement change through the review of policies and has delivered development that has changed lives for the better and in this case, this fosters efficient, competent, fair and informed market place that enhances the welfare of all Fijians.