The Fiji Taxi Association is advocating for an increase in taxi fares due to rising operational costs. Mohammed Khan, the newly-elected trustee, has highlighted the pressing need for fare adjustments, noting that the expenses associated with running a taxi, such as fuel, vehicle parts, driver salaries, and general maintenance, have seen a significant rise. He also pointed out that while supermarket prices have gone up, taxi fares have not changed, causing an imbalance for operators.
Jiten Kumar, the Nadi district secretary, supports this call and is urging association members to present a unified appeal to the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) for the fare increase. The deadline for submissions to the FCCC has been extended to October 10, with expectations for a favorable decision.
This push for fare increases is not an isolated issue but part of broader challenges within the taxi industry in Fiji. Past reports have highlighted competition from unregulated “pirate taxis,” which undermine licensed operators. These illegal taxis, typically operating without fare meters, not only affect the legitimate drivers’ earnings but also present safety risks to passengers. The ongoing dialogue about the fare increase also involves discussions about reintroducing a more structured base taxi system to enhance service reliability and mitigate congestion.
Recent initiatives by the FCCC demonstrate a commitment to aligning public transport fares with economic realities while safeguarding consumer interests. Amid these challenges, there is hope that collaboration between taxi operators and authorities will lead to solutions that ensure sustainability and fairness in Fiji’s transportation sector. These proposed changes aim to improve service standards and operational efficiency, ultimately benefiting both drivers and passengers.