About Fiji
Fiji, an archipelago nation in the South Pacific, is renowned for its stunning islands, vibrant coral reefs, and rich indigenous culture, with its economy largely driven by tourism and agricultural exports. While the country has seen improvements in press freedom since its return to democracy, media outlets continue to operate under restrictive laws inherited from the military era, influencing the local news landscape. This dynamic shapes how local and international events are reported and consumed across the islands.
Visiting Fiji
Media landscape
Press freedom has improved since Fiji's return to democracy, yet media organizations still navigate restrictive laws inherited from the military era. The environment includes both government-owned and independent outlets, contributing to a diverse but sometimes constrained news ecosystem.
Be aware that while English is widely used, some local news is also published in Fijian and Hindi, and certain outlets have government affiliations.
Sources we track 1
Pacific Nations Urged to Boost Labour Cooperation Amidst Skills Shortages and Climate Pressures
- Pacific Island countries are urged to enhance regional labor cooperation due to climate change, skills shortages, and global workforce shifts. - Officials highlighted challenges like economic recove…
Skills Shortage Forces Fiji Businesses to Recruit Overseas Workers
- Fiji's businesses are facing a significant skills shortage, with at least 95 positions vacant across key industries. - Companies are increasingly recruiting overseas workers to fill specialized and …
French national shows hantavirus symptoms on return from affected cruise ship
- A French national aboard a cruise ship with a hantavirus outbreak has developed symptoms. - The passenger was on a chartered flight from Tenerife to Paris and has been placed in isolation. - Three p…
Fiji Employers Federation Calls Union's $8 Wage Demand 'Not Good Faith'
- The Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation (FCEF) argues that the Fiji Trades Union Congress's demand for an $8/hour national living wage is not in good faith. - FCEF cites low productivity, skills …
Calls grow for independent election system overhaul
- FCOSS has submitted recommendations to Fiji's Constitution Review Commission calling for an overhaul of the independent election system. - Key proposals include transparent, merit-based appointments…
Kava Bill targets bigger growth for Fiji's industry
- Fiji's Agriculture Ministry is developing a Kava Bill and national policy to strengthen the kava industry. - The measures aim to protect farmers, improve product standards, and support long-term gro…
RFMF Commander calls for restraint amid “complex situation”
- The Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai, urged personnel to remain calm and disciplined amidst unfolding national events. - He acknowledged the challe…
ILO Warns of Rising Pressure on Global Labour Rights
- The International Labour Organization (ILO) warns of increasing pressure on global labor rights due to technological change, migration, and instability. - ILO Director Martin Wandera urged the Fiji …
Drug Crisis, HIV Surge Pushing Fiji's Health System to Breaking Point
- Fiji's health system is under severe strain due to a worsening drug crisis and a surge in HIV cases. - Healthcare workers are facing long hours, limited resources, and concerns about medical trainin…
Passengers Evacuated After Deadly Virus Outbreak on Cruise Ship
- Passengers are being evacuated from the cruise ship MV Hondius following a hantavirus outbreak near Spain's Canary Islands. - Three people have died in the outbreak, with two confirmed cases of hant…
Auvray admits Hughes' absence felt in Auckland loss
- Extra Bula FC's head coach, Stephane Auvray, acknowledged the team missed the attacking prowess of suspended midfielder Setareki Hughes in their loss to Auckland FC. - Auvray praised midfielder Ferg…
Ba crush Tailevu Naitasiri in nine-goal thriller
- Ba FC dominated Tailevu Naitasiri FC, winning 9-0 in an Extra Premier League match. - Faazil Ali and Penisoni Tirau scored braces, with Meli Vuilabasa also netting twice. - The victory strengthens B…
At Least 11 Injured in Suspected Boat Explosion Near Miami Beach
- At least 11 people were injured in a suspected boat explosion near Miami Beach on Saturday. - The incident occurred around 12:48 p.m. ET near Haulover Sandbar, a popular tourist destination. - Miami…
Coups Left Deep Scars on Fiji’s Economy: Economist
- Fiji's economy has suffered significant and lasting damage due to repeated political upheavals, according to development economist Dr. Asaeli Tuibeqa. - Political instability has weakened institutio…
Mothers Honored for Faith and Strength at Special Church Service
- Inner City Tabernacle Church held a special Mother's Day service filled with celebration, gratitude, and encouragement. - Members shared heartfelt testimonies of faith, resilience, and divine guidan…
Sanatan Sabha Honours Girmitiyas’ Sacrifice and 147 Years of Faith in Fiji
- The Shree Sanatan Dharm Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji is honoring the sacrifices and faith of the Girmitiya ancestors. - These indentured laborers from India arrived in Fiji on May 14, 1879, enduring har…
Pacific journalists urged to protect identity while embracing innovation
- Pacific journalists are encouraged to embrace innovation while preserving their cultural identity and indigenous knowledge. - Technology should be used to amplify Pacific stories, not erase local id…
Tagivetaua Embraces Drua Comeback Journey
- Swire Shipping Fijian Drua hooker Kavaia Tagivetaua finds his return from injury challenging but enjoyable. - Tagivetaua was sidelined early in the season but has since returned as an impact player …
Supyk sees positives despite Bula defeat
- Bula FC defender Adam Supyk expressed disappointment following a 2-0 loss to Auckland FC in the OFC Pro League Leaders Group. - Supyk noted that costly mistakes punished the Fijian team, but he beli…
Pacific countries to access disaster support faster
- Pacific countries affected by disasters will receive faster support through the newly ratified Pacific Resilience Facility. - The regional initiative, created by Pacific nations, aims to ensure vuln…
Unions urged to fight for workers as AI reshapes jobs
- Artificial intelligence is expected to significantly disrupt office jobs in Fiji, including customer service, administration, and accounting, within the next five years. - Information Minister Lynda…
Fijian Church Leads Community to Successful First Rice Harvest, Boosting Rural Incomes
- Villagers in Vunivutu, Fiji, have achieved their first successful rice harvest under the Nautodamu Cooperative. - The initiative, led by Reverend Savenaca Roko, demonstrates how the church can guide…
US, Iran No Closer to Ending War as Qatari Tanker Sails Toward Strait of Hormuz
- The US and Iran remain deadlocked in efforts to end a two-month conflict, with Tehran yet to respond to Washington's latest peace proposals. - A Qatari LNG tanker is en route to Pakistan through the…
WOWS Kids Hosts Family Support Day
- WOWS Kids Fiji Foundation hosted a family support day in the Central Division, offering a safe space for children with cancer and their families. - The event included games, ear and eye clinic servi…
One Nation wins historic Farrer by-election, claims first lower-house seat
- One Nation secured a historic victory in the Farrer by-election, marking its first lower-house seat. - Candidate David Farley won with 59% of the two-candidate-preferred vote, defeating a major coal…
Fiji's PM Backs National Living Wage Talks, Pledges Support for Workers Amid Rising Costs
- Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka stated that workers should not bear the sole burden of rising living costs. - The government welcomes dialogue on Fiji's first proposed National Living Wage and…
Fiji Strengthens Qualifications Framework to Boost National Skills and Productivity
- Fiji's Ministry of Education is strengthening the National Qualifications Framework to enhance the national skills system. - The reforms aim to improve articulation pathways between vocational, tech…
Fiji's Outsourcing Sector Poised for Major Growth
- Fiji's outsourcing industry is projected to nearly double in value, reaching approximately $450 million annually by 2030. - The sector faces challenges, primarily a shortage of skilled workers, but …
Jewish Australians Detail 'Unfair' Backlash and Rising Antisemitism Linked to Gaza Conflict
- Jewish Australians are reporting increased feelings of unsafety and experiencing public and targeted attacks, including antisemitism. - These incidents have occurred in schools, workplaces, and onli…
Detained journalist Cheng Lei turns ordeal into international theatre tour
- Australian journalist Cheng Lei, who was detained in China for over three years on espionage charges, has created a theatre show based on her experiences. - The play, titled '1154 Days', is named af…
Fiji to Honour Girmitiyas with Special Commemorative Stamp Series
- Fiji will commemorate the 147th National Girmit Commemoration by launching a special series of commemorative stamps. - The stamps will pay tribute to the sacrifices and legacy of the Girmitiyas, ind…
Ministry Pushes for University Integration to Boost Workforce Readiness
- Fiji's Education Ministry is working to better align university programs with industry needs to enhance workforce readiness. - Education Minister Aseri Radrodro called for greater collaboration betw…
Fuel shock raises alarm over health services
- Fiji's health system faces potential strain due to the escalating global fuel crisis and rising prices. - Health Minister Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu stated that sustained fuel price hikes could impa…
India marks Girmitiya sacrifice and legacy
- India is honoring the Girmitiyas, indentured laborers who significantly contributed to Fiji's history, economy, and multicultural identity over 147 years. - The Indian High Commissioner to Fiji, Sun…
Online Abuse Silencing Women in Public Life, Warns Fiji Minister
- Information Minister Lynda Tabuya stated that online abuse is silencing women in public life in Fiji. - She described online harassment targeting women activists and unionists as a new form of workp…
Minister backs tough new anti-drug measures
- Fiji's Tourism Minister Viliame Gavoka acknowledges the worsening drug situation in the country. - He stated that measures have been tightened within the tourism industry to prevent drug-related iss…
New Gymnosperm Park boosts conservation efforts
- Fiji has opened the Naduruvatu Gymnosperm Park in Colo-i-Suva, a new site dedicated to preserving rare native gymnosperm tree species. - The park houses all 10 native gymnosperm species found in Fij…
AI-driven medicine eyed to ease health gaps
- Pacific leaders are adopting digital healthcare and AI to combat the growing crisis of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), which affect nearly 80% of the region's population. - AI-powered telehealth s…
Girmitiyas remain foundation of Fiji–India ties
- The legacy of the Girmitiyas, indentured laborers brought from India, forms the bedrock of the strong relationship between Fiji and India. - Indian High Commissioner Suneet Mehta highlighted the pro…
Auvray expecting tougher test against Auckland
- Bula FC's head coach, Stephane Auvray, anticipates a challenging match against Auckland FC in the OFC Pro League Leaders Group. - Auvray acknowledged the strength and depth of teams like Auckland FC…
Grogu is the Real Star of New Star Wars Film, Says Pedro Pascal
- The cast of "The Mandalorian & Grogu" attended a UK fan event in London, marking Star Wars' return to cinemas after over six years. - Directed by Jon Favreau, the film continues the story of Din Dja…
EU Cautions on War, Power Politics, and Instability
- The European Union warns that the international order is under severe strain due to intensifying global conflicts and geopolitical rivalry. - EU Ambassador to the Pacific Barbara Plinkert highlighte…
Court questions police handling of late officer's murder case amid delays
- The Suva High Court has questioned the Fiji Police Force's handling of the case involving the late Peniasi Racagi. - Justice Daniel Goundar expressed concern over delays in receiving the post-mortem…
Fiji Port Fee Hike Under Review Amid Rising Costs
- Fiji Ports Terminal Limited has submitted a formal request to the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission to increase port fees, citing rising operational costs due to fuel price fluctuations. - …
FDB Supports Businesses Amid Rising Fuel Costs
- The Fiji Development Bank (FDB) is implementing measures to support businesses impacted by rising fuel costs, particularly those in transport and logistics. - FDB is identifying vulnerable businesse…
Nationwide programmes planned for Girmit day celebrations
- Fiji will commemorate the 147th anniversary of the arrival of indentured laborers with nationwide events highlighting history and culture. - The Ministry of Multi-Ethnic Affairs is leading the Girmi…
Rising costs and transport gaps hit Cikobia’s copra economy
- Copra remains a vital source of income for families on the remote Fijian island of Cikobia. - Villagers face significant challenges due to rising transportation costs and unreliable services for mov…
Public Consultations on Draft Tourism Bill 2026 Conclude in Fiji
- Fiji's Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation has concluded nationwide public consultations on the Draft Tourism Bill 2026. - The consultations, held in key tourism centers, aimed to gather feedback…
Fiji Women's Crisis Centre Warns Against Fake News, Impersonation
- The Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre (FWCC) has warned the public about fake online news stories and impersonation tactics. - FWCC stated that an online article falsely attributing support for the death p…
Singapore teachers can cane students as young as 9 under new anti-bullying strategy
- Singapore's Education Minister Desmond Lee confirmed teachers can use caning as a disciplinary measure for unruly students when other methods fail. - Strict protocols are in place, requiring princip…
Iran Reviewing US Proposal to End War, Key Demands Unaddressed
- Iran is reviewing a U.S. peace proposal aimed at ending the ongoing war, though key U.S. demands remain unaddressed. - The proposal reportedly requires Iran to suspend its nuclear program and reopen…
Permanent Secretary Accused of Manhandling Staff Member Amidst Media Encounter
- FBC News is investigating allegations that a Permanent Secretary manhandled a ministry staff member. - Witnesses claim the incident occurred after the staff member spoke to the media, with the Perma…
Fiji Council of Social Services Urges Alternative Climate Finance Channels
- The Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS) advocates for alternative climate finance channels beyond government systems. - FCOSS Executive Director Vani Catanasiga stated that traditional governmen…
Bunnings to launch Fiji- dedicated online store
- Bunnings Warehouse is launching a dedicated online store for customers in Fiji. - The new platform will offer a wide range of hardware and home improvement products from trusted brands. - Bunnings a…
Pacific Leaders Unite Against Rising Drug Trafficking Threat
- Pacific leaders are uniting to address the escalating threat of transnational crime, particularly drug trafficking, which is causing significant social and economic damage across the region. - Austr…
Fiji Warns of Electrical Fire Surge, Cites Unlicensed Electricians
- Fiji's National Fire Authority (NFA) is increasing inspections and enforcement due to a surge in electrical fires. - Unlicensed electricians and poor workmanship are identified as primary causes, ac…
Hearing Dates Confirmed for PM Rabuka's Appeal Bid
- Fiji's Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka's appeal to pause a ruling on the unlawful dismissal of a former FICAC Commissioner has been set for June 1. - The High Court ordered Rabuka to pay a $3,000 sec…
Gas Line Work Suspected Cause of Zamzam Restaurant Fire; Five Hospitalized
- A fire at Zamzam Restaurant in Samabula is believed to have started during a gas line valve repair. - Five individuals were treated by paramedics and taken to the hospital. - The National Fire Autho…
Vunimoli Cooperative Celebrates Dividend Payout, Highlighting Cooperative Model's Success in Fiji's Sugar Industry
- The Vunimoli Cooperative in Labasa, Fiji, is celebrating a significant milestone with members receiving $5,000 in dividends. - This success highlights the benefits of collective effort and shared in…
Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni settle lawsuit over It Ends With Us film
- Co-stars Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni have settled a lawsuit filed during the filming of their 2024 movie "It Ends With Us." - The settlement comes just weeks before a scheduled trial where both …
Young Ayden Akbar Set to Make History for Fiji in Aerobic Gymnastics
- Ayden Akbar is set to become Fiji's first male Youth AER International athlete from Flight Club. - He will compete at the Australian National Clubs Carnival on the Gold Coast in September. - Akbar's…
Housing Authority Advances Major Waila Development Project
- The Housing Authority is advancing plans for a major 864-acre development in Waila, Nausori, Fiji. - The project will include residential, commercial, civic, and industrial lots, along with modern h…
Fiji to Host Top Australian Ministers
- Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Minister for Pacific Island Affairs Pat Conroy are visiting Fiji to deepen bilateral ties and strengthen regional fuel security. - The visit aims to enhanc…
Rainibogi leads Fiji's weightlifters to impressive medal haul
- Fiji's weightlifting captain Taniela Rainibogi set an Oceania snatch record and won multiple medals at the IBFC Universal Cup. - Debut athletes also achieved significant success, securing numerous g…
Energy talks strengthen fuel supply
- Fiji is strengthening energy partnerships with Singapore and Australia to ensure fuel supply stability. - Discussions focused on securing Fiji's fuel supply chain, with approximately 90% currently s…
Government Moves to Tighten Border Laws
- Fiji is updating its border laws through the Immigration, Passports, and Citizenship Amendment Bills of 2026. - The proposed changes aim to create a more flexible and responsive legal framework to a…
Security firm probed over alleged worker mistreatment after viral video
- A security company in Fiji is under investigation following a viral video alleging unsafe worker treatment. - The Ministry of Employment confirmed labor inspectors are assessing the situation to det…
Fiji Constitution Review: Indigenous Rights Safeguards Under Scrutiny
- Former Opposition MP Niko Nawaikula argues Fiji's 2013 Constitution lacks safeguards for group rights and indigenous protections present in the 1997 framework. - Nawaikula advocates for explicitly i…
Fiji's Kava Export Push to UK Faces Regulatory Hurdles
- Fiji is working to open its kava exports to the United Kingdom market, facing regulatory and supply challenges. - Access to the UK market requires compliance with strict international standards, inc…
Fiji Government Assures Stability, No State of Emergency Declared
- Fiji's government has confirmed no State of Emergency is needed following a review of national security and economic conditions. - The National Security Council assessed fuel supply, financial stabi…
Fiji Landowners Oppose Hydro Deal, Citing Lack of Consent
- The Namosi Landowners Committee (LAMA) strongly opposes a proposed hydro development project in Namosi, Fiji. - LAMA argues the project's power purchase agreement was signed prematurely, without the…
Fiji Medical Association Urges Structured Approach to Drug Testing
- The Fiji Medical Association (FMA) urges the government to implement a structured, evidence-based approach to drug testing public officials. - While acknowledging the seriousness of drug use, the FM…
Fiji Military Commander Issues Final Warning to Drug Lords
- The Land Force Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces has issued a strong warning against illicit drug activities. - Brigadier General Onisivoro Covunisaqa stated that authorities will ta…
Police investigate reported gun sighting in Nabua
- Police are investigating a reported gun sighting in Nabua involving a vehicle owner and his son. - The vehicle owner stated his son was holding a toy gun, which matched the description given by a se…
New Machinery to Boost Fiji's Farm Road Development
- Fiji's Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways has commissioned new heavy machinery to boost farm road development and land preparation. - The $1.2 million investment includes graders, wheel loaders, …
FSSRL Grand Final Set for Ba
- The Vodafone Fiji Secondary School Rugby League 2026 Grand Final will be held in Ba at 4R Govind Park next Saturday. - The venue will host finals for the Under-15, Under-17, and Under-19 divisions. …
Drua to rest and recover after historic Highlanders win
- The Fijian Drua rugby team is entering a bye week after a historic win against the Highlanders. - Head coach Glen Jackson emphasized rest and recovery for the players after a demanding eight-week pe…
Workplace abuse goes unreported amid fear of retaliation
- Workplace harassment, bullying, and discrimination are going largely unreported due to employees' fear of retaliation. - Victims often endure abuse to avoid losing their jobs or facing backlash, lea…
QVS Ends 33-Year Drought
- Queen Victoria School (QVS) has ended a 33-year title drought at the 2026 Coca-Cola Games, marking a significant return to prominence in Fijian athletics. - In a closely contested boys' division, QV…
Suva Grammar's Vonolagi claims second gold in thrilling 200m finish
- Suva Grammar School's Paula Vonolagi secured his second gold medal in the senior boys' 200-meter event at the athletics championship. - Vonolagi staged a dramatic comeback in the final 50 meters, di…
Kiwi father and son cross borders for Drua
- A New Zealand father and son traveled to Fiji to attend a Fijian Drua rugby match as a graduation celebration. - The pair expressed admiration for the Fijian Drua's playing style and the team's home…
Macedru Smashes 18-Year Shot Put Record in Emotional Senior Farewell at Coca-Cola Games
- Maryann Macedru broke the 18-year-old Senior Shot Put record at the Coca-Cola Games with a throw of 13.50 meters. - The victory marks an emotional farewell to her senior year, achieved despite chall…
Fiji Police Probe $150K Corruption Allegations After Social Media Claims
- The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) is investigating claims that police officers misappropriated $150,000 seized during a drug raid. - A media representative was questioned as part of the i…
Drua Eye Historic First Win Against Highlanders in Ba Showdown
- The Fijian Drua rugby team aims for their first-ever win against the Highlanders in Ba. - This match is significant as the Highlanders are one of the few teams the Drua have not yet defeated in Supe…
Lutumailagi Continues 400m Winning Streak with Fiji Finals Gold
- Adi Ceva Lutumailagi of Natabua High School secured another gold medal in the senior girls 400m race at the Fiji Finals, extending her undefeated streak. - This victory marks her final year at Natab…
MGM, QVS Dominate 4x100m Relay Titles at Coca-Cola Games
- Mahatma Gandhi Memorial School and Queen Victoria School won the senior girls and boys 4x100m relay titles at the Coca-Cola Games 2026. - MGM's senior girls and VQS's senior boys dominated their res…
Fijians Paying More for Less as Shrinkflation Rises
- Opposition MP Premila Kumar has raised concerns about shrinkflation in Fiji, where product sizes are decreasing while prices remain the same. - She highlighted examples like powdered milk, toilet pa…
Rising fuel prices push outer island communities to the brink
- Escalating fuel prices are severely impacting Fiji's outer island communities, making essential transport and goods unaffordable. - Villagers in Yasawa-i-Rara face a 78% increase in travel costs to …
Iran Warns of 'Long and Painful Strikes' if U.S. Renews Attacks
- Iran has threatened 'long and painful strikes' on U.S. positions if Washington renews attacks, complicating U.S. plans for a coalition to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. - The vital sea channel remains…
Protests Erupt in Australia After Indigenous Girl's Death; Police Clash with Crowd
- Hundreds of protesters clashed with police and emergency services in Alice Springs, Australia, following the alleged murder of a five-year-old Indigenous girl. - Protesters attempted to storm a hosp…
Workplace Safety Strategy Shifts to Prevention
- Fiji is shifting its workplace safety strategy from enforcement to prevention through training and awareness. - The Ministry of Employment aims to empower employers and workers to prevent accidents,…
Fiji Opposition Seeks Clarity on University Oversight Amidst Governance Concerns
- Fiji's Opposition MP Premila Kumar raised concerns in Parliament about governance and accountability at the Fiji National University (FNU). - Kumar highlighted delays in appointing an FNU council an…
Namosi Hydro Project Marks Big Step in Fiji's Energy Transition
- Fiji has taken a significant step towards clean energy by signing a power purchase agreement for the Namosi Hydro Project. - The project aims to generate 90% of Fiji's electricity from renewable sou…
Fiji's Reserve Bank Warns of Impending Price Hikes
- Fiji's annual inflation was -0.8% in March, but the Reserve Bank of Fiji warns of upcoming price hikes. - Rising fuel costs due to the US-Iran conflict and increased food prices after Tropical Cyclo…
Fiji Taskforce Vows to Combat Drug Trade Amidst Social Media Disinformation
- A joint task force in Fiji is combating drug-related activities and the illicit drug trade, supported by the RFMF and Fiji Police Force. - The task force warns against misinformation and conspiracy …
New Law Expands Quarantine Powers and Disease Control in Fiji
- Fiji has passed a new Public Health (Amendment) Bill 2026 to modernize its public health system, replacing the outdated Public Health Act 1935. - The reforms aim to strengthen disease surveillance, …
Fiji Intensifies Push to Address Elder Support Gaps
- Fiji is undertaking a review of its National Ageing Policy 2026-2035 through nationwide consultations. - The review aims to address systemic issues and improve services for the elderly, focusing on …
Nationwide Consultations Shape Fiji’s New Ageing Policy
- Fiji has developed a Draft National Ageing Policy 2026–2035 following extensive nationwide consultations. - Over 1,700 people participated in over 100 consultation sessions, including older persons,…
No place for bullying at Coke Games; Tabuya
- Fiji's Minister for Information, Lynda Tabuya, opened the Coca-Cola Games, warning against bullying. - Tabuya emphasized that sports should foster unity and respect, not division or harm, citing con…
It’s the Marist in QVS That We’re Aware Of - Raboiliku
- Marist Brothers High School coach Antonio Raboiliku anticipates a tough competition at this year's Coca-Cola Games boys' division. - He acknowledges that defending champions Marist are not the sole …