Fiji's Deputy PM says competition bill needs review despite Cabinet approval

Fiji's Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica has indicated that the proposed Competition and Consumer Commission Bill 2026, despite receiving Cabinet approval, is still open for further consultation. Kamikamica, who also oversees the Industries, Commerce, and Business Development portfolio, acknowledged that the policy framework for the bill was established around 2019 and is now considered dated. He expressed a desire to re-examine the bill upon his return to the portfolio, suggesting a need for updates and revisions.

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there is still room for further consultation on the proposed Competition and Consumer Commission Bill 2026, despite it already being approved by Cabinet.

Concerns have been voiced by various stakeholders regarding the bill, particularly the Fiji Law Society. They have questioned the adequacy of the eight-day consultation period for the 113-page document. Specific points of contention include the proposed enforcement powers and penalties outlined in the bill. The Fiji Law Society has called for more supporting data, impact assessments, and detailed information regarding the proposed regulations and merger thresholds.

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the policy behind the Bill was developed around 2019 and acknowledges the timeframe is now dated.

Kamikamica explained that the bill was fast-tracked to Cabinet due to its linkage with funding from the Asian Development Bank (ADB). He assured stakeholders that despite the Cabinet's approval, there will still be ample opportunity for thorough discussion and the incorporation of public views before the bill is presented to Parliament. He urged stakeholders not to panic, emphasizing that the legislative process will include further deliberation and consultation.

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One of the reasons we had to take the Bill to Cabinet was it was tied to funding with the ADB. So that’s been done, but there’s still opportunity to discuss thoroughly and take views, and then table it in Parliament.