Fiji introduced its new series of polymer banknotes, featuring advanced security features across all denominations, in a ceremony held at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva. This fresh collection of banknotes, which cost approximately $5 million USD (around $11 million FJD), was produced by Crane Currency, a renowned U.S.-based banknote supplier, at its printing facility in Malta.
The Reserve Bank of Fiji (RBF) has ordered a total of 60 million banknotes, which includes both those intended for circulation and numismatic purposes, following the successful bid by Crane Currency in the recent tender process.
Designed with vibrant themes representing the nation’s identity, the new series maintains the existing primary colors on the front while introducing new designs on the reverse side. These designs showcase Fiji’s natural heritage and culture. For example, the $5 note features the endangered Vonu Dina (green turtle), while the $10 note depicts children planting mangroves. Additionally, the $20 banknote showcases the central bank building, the $50 note highlights a Girmitiya woman with the vessel ‘Leonidas’ in the background, and the $100 note presents an iTaukei man in traditional attire holding a bowl of kava.
RBF Governor Ariff Ali stated that creating the new banknotes involved an extensive and careful planning process, underscoring the importance of security and durability in the design. The RBF’s internal currency technical committee played a crucial role in selecting the designs and technical enhancements, with the board approving the final designs in April of the previous year.
“This is the Reserve Bank’s first collaboration with Crane Currency, which brings over 200 years of banknote expertise,” noted Mr. Ali, emphasizing the supplier’s experience in banknote design and printing, as well as its role in producing paper substrates for U.S. currency.
The chief guest, President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, expressed that the unveiling of the new banknotes signifies a collective commitment to national growth, prosperity, and unity. He highlighted that these currency notes symbolize national sovereignty and pride, as well as the importance of effective management.
The new banknotes are set to enter circulation on January 2, following which the current designs will be gradually phased out, with all previous currencies being demonetized by December 31 of the following year. This transition not only enhances the security of Fiji’s currency but also marks an important milestone towards the country’s developmental goals.