The Government is concerned by the continued delaying tactics being employed by the Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association and a small number of industry players in relation to the implementation of the 5 percent Tourism Services Tax. In a statement, Finance Minister Esrom Immanuel says government had engaged with the FHTA and key tourism industry stakeholders since June to discuss the introduction, application and implementation of the tax. He says government has also provided the industry with additional time to prepare for the new measure, with the implementation date adjusted from 1st July, to 1st August, and subsequently to 1st…
Author: admin_fijitimes
The Methodist Church in Fiji and Rotuma could see a major change in how it operates, with its President proposing a reduction in the number of Church divisions. While formally opening its Annual Conference or Bose Ko Viti, Reverend Dr. Semisi Turagavou highlighted that reducing the current 59 divisions to 40 could strengthen the Church’s operations, monitoring and pastoral work across the country. With the Church currently operating across 59 divisions, any reduction would change how ministers and church members are supported and how activities are managed at divisional level. Reverend Dr. Semisi Turagavou said reducing the number of divisions…
A 10-year partnership between the Foundation for Rural Integrated Enterprises and Development (FRIEND) and the Motibhai Group is helping rural producers turn locally made goods into sustainable business opportunities. The partnership now supports 31 Fijian-made products, ranging from chutneys, pickles and herbal teas to gluten-free flours, dried fruits, spices and desiccated coconut. These products are supplied to retail, hospitality and wholesale markets. The partnership celebrated its 10th anniversary at Walu Bay, where Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Industries, Commerce, Business Development and Public Enterprise, Manoa Kamikamica, stressed the importance of linking rural businesses with established commercial networks. Kamikamica said…
The main US stock indices have closed higher but showed declines for the week, which was marked by investor jitters over fluctuating government bond yields and a lack of clarity on progress in the Middle East
The National Federation Party has extended its greetings to Fiji’s Muslim community as Muslims mark the Birthday of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, while highlighting the community’s century-long contribution to Fiji. The occasion also coincides with the centenary celebrations of the Fiji Muslim League, which was established in 1926. In a statement, National Federation Party Leader Professor Biman Prasad said the Fiji Muslim League has played an important role in Fiji’s religious, educational and social development over the past 100 years. Professor Prasad acknowledged the contribution of Fiji’s Muslim community to the country’s political, economic and social development, noting that it…
An automated avocado packing facility has opened in the South West which growers hope will help tackle rising costs in the industry.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has called on Fijians to strengthen unity, reject religious and racial intolerance, and embrace compassion and service as Fiji commemorates the birth of Prophet Mohammed. In his national address, Rabuka extended the Government’s best wishes to Fiji’s Muslim community, saying the occasion provided an opportunity not only for celebration but also for reflection on the Prophet’s life and teachings. He said values including compassion, justice, generosity, respect for others and care for vulnerable people remained relevant to Fiji’s efforts to build a peaceful and harmonious society. Rabuka says these are values that speak not only to…
Labor makes fuel powers permanent
The Fiji Water Flying Fijians will head into the 2026 Asahi Pacific Nations Cup with a blend of proven experience and exciting new talent, after naming seven uncapped players in a 33-member squad. The selection highlights Fiji’s growing depth, with acting head coach, Senirusi Seruvakula rewarding several emerging talents who have impressed at both domestic and professional levels. Leading the group of debutants are forwards Penaia Cakobau, Vilikesa Nairau, Inoke Ravuiwasa and Isoa Tuwai, while backs Terio Tamani, Maleli Nauvasi and Isaac Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens are also in line to earn their first Test caps. The new faces join a squad packed…
The teaser of Gunmaaster G9, starring Emraan Hashmi, Genelia Deshmukh and Aparshakti Khurana, is set to premiere theatrically ahead of the screening of Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-ups, offering audiences an early glimpse of the much-awaited action-romance.While Gunmaaster G9 is slated for a worldwide theatrical release on November 27, 2026, the makers are kickstarting the film’s promotional campaign well in advance with a dedicated theatrical teaser premiere.Rather than being attached to the print of Toxic, the teaser will be screened separately ahead of the film, giving Gunmaaster G9 a distinct theatrical showcase. With Toxic expected to draw substantial audiences,…