The Consumer Council of Fiji is advising the public that taxi drivers demanding extra fees for eWallet transactions, such as payments through M-PAiSA and MyCash, are acting illegally.
Under the current law, the fare displayed on the taxi meter is final—regardless of the method of payment.
In some cases, drivers requested as much as $2 extra, claiming the additional charge was to cover withdrawal fees or mobile charges.
The Council emphasizes that passengers are only required to pay the metered fare, nothing more.
They say this practice not only violates regulations governing taxi operations but also undermines public confidence in digital payment systems, which are intended to be convenient, secure, and cashless.
The Consumer Council urges the public to report such incidents immediately, including details such as the vehicle registration number, time, date, and location of the trip.
Passengers are also reminded that they have the right to refuse any request for extra charges and to insist on paying only the exact fare shown on the meter.
The Council states it is working closely with the relevant authorities to ensure that taxi operators comply with the law and that consumer rights are upheld.
