Three pharmacy businesses have been issued formal warnings by the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission after they were found operating without a registered pharmacist present on the premises, in direct breach of the conditions of their Pharmacy Business Authorisations.
The warnings followed FCCC's nationwide Pharmacy Audit for the 2025–26 financial year, during which 70 pharmacies were inspected.
FCCC says three pharmacies were found to be operating without a registered pharmacist present during opening hours, violating Condition 2 of the Pharmacy Business Authorisation, which requires a registered pharmacist to be on the premises at all times the pharmacy is open.
The Commission says the presence of a registered pharmacist is a fundamental requirement for the lawful operation of a pharmacy and is essential to ensuring consumer safety and the provision of professional pharmaceutical services.
It says breaches of Pharmacy Business Authorisation conditions are taken seriously and may result in further regulatory action, including revocation of the authorisation under Section 45(3B) of the Pharmacy Profession Act 2011.
FCCC stresses that the requirement is not an administrative formality but exists to protect patients.
It says a registered pharmacist on site ensures medicines are dispensed safely, dosages are checked, and patients and consumers receive proper advice on the medication they are buying.
The Commission warns that a pharmacy trading without a pharmacist may expose consumers to potential risks.
The audit also found that 67 of the 70 pharmacies inspected were operating in full compliance with their authorisation conditions.
FCCC acknowledged the professionalism of these businesses and their pharmacists, saying regulatory action against non-compliant operators helps protect consumers while maintaining a level playing field for compliant businesses that adhere to patient safety requirements.
The Commission says it will continue auditing pharmacies across Fiji and is encouraging consumers with concerns about the operation of any pharmacy, including the absence of a pharmacist during opening hours, to contact FCCC.
