The Fiji Commerce & Employers Federation is calling on the Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations to immediately expedite the legislative requirements needed to increase the meal allowance agreed to last year.
FCEF CEO Edward Bernard says it has been more than eight months since the tripartite parties agreed to increase the meal allowance.
Bernard says once implemented, the increase will help workers access decent meals and mitigate the impact of high food prices.
He says FCEF moved significantly from its original position to support a gradual increase in the meal allowance over three years, starting in 2025.
FCEF says its position was based on consultations with employers, analysis of the Consumer Price Index and alignment with International Labour Organization Conventions 131, 135 and 144.
Bernard says FCEF also agreed to standardise meal allowances across all sectors to ensure equity for workers.
He says while the Fiji Trades Union Congress is focused on introducing a living wage system, employers are supporting efforts to improve workers' general incomes, health and productivity through increased allowances.
Bernard says employers are more receptive to increases in allowances as they are directly linked to attendance, extended operations due to potential higher revenue and better productivity.
He says unions generally push for wage increases and are now seeking the introduction of a new wage system.
Bernard says there is only so much pressure from wage increases that businesses can bear before they struggle or begin laying off staff.
