The Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) has launched a formal review of the FCCC (Control of Fares and Charges for Public Service Vehicles) Order 2023, which came into effect on February 1, 2023, and is set to last until January 31, 2026. This review is mandated under section 39 of the FCCC Act 2010 and focuses on evaluating the existing regulations regarding fares and charges for public service vehicles (PSVs), which include taxis, minibuses, buses, and hire vehicles.
To facilitate a comprehensive assessment, the FCCC encourages written submissions from the public, industry stakeholders, and pertinent parties. Contributions should address the current regulatory framework governing PSV fares, and participants are invited to offer recommendations on whether to extend, amend, vary, or revoke the existing Order, along with the necessary justifications for their views.
Stakeholders are additionally urged to share their insights regarding the current and anticipated regulated fares for public transport, as well as any relevant information that could assist in this review process. This initiative highlights the FCCC’s commitment to enhancing consumer protection and ensuring that the transport sector serves the needs of all users.
In related news, Fiji’s public service vehicles sector has seen a successful rollout of a new bus fare structure designed to align student fares with those of adults, while government subsidies help alleviate the financial burden on families. The FCCC remains focused on ensuring compliance with service quality standards and fair compensation for bus operators, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with industry stakeholders for sustainable development.
The ongoing review of fares and the active participation of the public signal the FCCC’s commitment to creating a transparent, fair, and efficient public transport system, which ultimately benefits both consumers and service providers. This marks a significant step towards fostering a more effective regulatory framework within Fiji’s transportation sector, indicating a hopeful outlook for the future of public transport in the region.