Fuel price rise will have direct impact on prices of goods and services - FCEF

The Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation is calling on the Government to clearly communicate its plans and messaging, in relation to the fuel crisis, and FCEF CEO, Edward Bernard says an overnight increase of up to 35 percent for diesel and 20 percent for petrol, impacts heavily on business planning, and will have a direct impact on goods and services. 

Bernard says the assurance that we have adequate fuel for 90 days and that there will be no price hike and then the overnight announcement of price increases of four products is not generating confidence within the private sector.

He says in times of crisis, it is imperative that there are clear and precise plans and messaging reaching businesses and the public. 

Bernard stresses that business continuity depends on advanced planning and robust contingency plans against disruptions. 

FCEF President and General Manager Pacific Islands at Essity Australasia (Fiji) Ltd, Eldon Eastgate says while most businesses have a business continuity plan, understanding our government's plan of action and have this clearly communicated is imperative.

Eastgate says it is imperative a clear plan and consistent messaging is communicated and at the right time. 

He says the private sector acknowledges Government constraints, and recognises that this is a global crisis - which will translate to an increase in the cost of doing business. 

However, he says the Government must ensure that our alignment to ensuring the ease of doing business is maintained, and this requires clear and precise planning, and messaging.

FCEF is grateful for the appointment of a Fuel Controller, a Fuel Advisory Committee and a Cabinet Sub-Committee on Fuel a few weeks ago. 

FCEF says the business community and public are looking forward to hearing about any national plans that will support business sustainability so that customers can be adequately served and workers can continue to be employed. 

FCEF has also written to the Fuel Controller indicating the importance of ensuring that the private sector’s contributions is included in the drafting of the regulations to support contingency measures, including the ability to prioritize fuel allocation. 

FCEF strongly advises all businesses to activate their Business Continuity Plans.

We have sought comments from the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance.