The Fiji Commerce & Employers Federation (FCEF) says the national measures that will be put in place by the Fuel Controller, the Fuel Advisory Committee, and the Cabinet Sub-Committee should address sourcing fuel from the best markets, efficiently prioritising distribution based on needs, and planning for possible further escalation of both fuel supply and fuel prices.
While welcoming the Government’s recent appointment of a Fuel Controller, a Fuel Advisory Committee, and a Cabinet Sub-Committee for Energy, FCEF says this national effort to oversee energy-related matters and guide a coordinated national response comes at a critical time for the public, workers, and businesses.
FCEF Chief Executive Edward Bernard says they support this initiative and hope there will be greater information sharing, consultations, and coordination with the private sector to optimise positive outcomes at this time of heightened uncertainty.
He says in the last few weeks, fuel security has become a priority business challenge across all industries, including for micro and small enterprises.
Bernard says it is imperative to ensure that effective national measures are implemented that support reliability of fuel supply, stability of fuel prices, and certainty for businesses.
He adds that it is also critical to acknowledge that we are still within our cyclone season and therefore, the private sector wants to see decisions that provide confidence and stability.
Bernard further adds that FCEF will continue to engage with businesses to provide guidance on the continuity of industry and business operations, while at the same time clearly articulate their priorities to Government.
