Government boosts sports funding ahead of Pacific Games

Fiji's government is making a substantial financial commitment to sports development, allocating millions of dollars to prepare athletes for the upcoming 2027 Pacific Games in Tahiti. This investment aims to bolster national teams, support individual athletes, and foster community well-being through sport.

Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru announced in parliament that sport is a key strength for Fiji, driving national development and economic growth. The budget includes approximately $5.88 million for overseas sporting tours, providing national teams crucial international exposure. Additionally, $2.19 million is set aside for coaches and $185,869 for sports scholarships to nurture talent.

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Sport remains one of Fiji’s greatest strengths and a key driver of national development, community wellbeing and economic growth.

The government is also strengthening grassroots sports with a $250,000 Sports Outreach Programme and funding for community sports associations. To encourage private sector participation, businesses sponsoring the Fijian Drua or Bula FC will receive increased tax deductions. Furthermore, new sporting facilities will qualify for a 150 percent tax deduction, incentivizing investment in sports infrastructure.

Minister Saukuru stated that these investments underscore the government's dedication to expanding sports participation, developing elite athletes, and ensuring Fiji remains competitive internationally. The funding reflects a strategic approach to leveraging sports for national pride and progress.

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The investments reflect the government’s commitment to broadening participation, developing elite athletes and ensuring Fiji remains competitive on the international stage.