The Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) has initiated a formal review of the FCCC (Control of Fares and Charges for Public Service Vehicles) Order 2023, implemented on February 1, 2023, and scheduled to remain in effect until January 31, 2026. This review, mandated under section 39 of the FCCC Act 2010, aims to evaluate the regulations surrounding fares and charges for public service vehicles (PSVs), which include taxis, minibuses, buses, and hire vehicles.
As part of this comprehensive review, the FCCC is welcoming written submissions from the public, industry stakeholders, and other relevant parties. The submissions are expected to address the current regulatory framework governing PSV fares, and participants are encouraged to provide recommendations on whether to extend, amend, vary, or revoke the existing Order, along with justifications for their perspectives.
Additionally, stakeholders are invited to share their views on the current and projected regulated fares for public transport and any relevant information that could aid the review process. This initiative reflects the FCCC’s commitment to enhancing consumer protection and ensuring the transport sector meets the needs of all users.
Recent developments in Fiji’s public service vehicles sector include the successful implementation of a new bus fare structure, which sought to align student fares with those of adults while ensuring government subsidies alleviate any financial burden on families. The FCCC aims to ensure ongoing compliance with service quality standards and fair compensation for bus operators, reinforcing the importance of collaboration with industry stakeholders for sustainable development.
The review of the fares and the proactive involvement of the public demonstrate the FCCC’s dedication to fostering a transparent, equitable, and effective public transport system, ultimately benefiting both consumers and service providers alike. These initiatives mark a promising step towards a more efficient regulatory framework in Fiji’s transportation landscape.