AGP Executive Report

Fiji Politics & Courts: FICAC says it’s ready to proceed with Professor Biman Prasad’s trial over alleged disclosure failures, with the hearing set for August 10–14, 2026. Police & Safety: Police are investigating reports of two men entering an all-girls boarding school during a long power outage; electricity has since been restored after cable damage during works. Governance & Compliance: Labasa Town Council warns it will continue legal action against rate defaulters even as some arrears are being cleared. Customs & Revenue: Fiji Revenue and Customs Service will get broader investigative powers under proposed Customs Act amendments, including longer recovery time for unpaid duties. Road Safety: Government moves to re-establish the National Road Safety Council after Fiji recorded its highest road death toll in 15 years. Regional Diplomacy: Papua New Guinea orders Taiwan’s representative office closed, intensifying China-Taiwan pressure across the Pacific. Pacific Environment: Melanesian nations, including Fiji, back a major ocean reserve corridor, with Solomon Islands joining the plan.

Fiji Politics & Governance: Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka backs the RFMF push to remove the 2013 Constitution’s military immunity clause, while government also moves to review pay for Fiji Police and RFMF civilian staff and tighten tax reporting penalties. Justice & Anti-Corruption: FICAC says it is ready to proceed with Professor Biman Prasad’s trial over alleged failure to disclose directorships, with the hearing set for August 10–14, 2026. Public Safety & Health: Fiji opens its first Salvation Army alcohol and drug recovery centre in Suva, and the National Road Safety Council is set to return after Fiji recorded its highest road deaths in 15 years. Trade & Economy: New Zealand and Fiji renew the Duavata partnership for 2026–2030 with trade, security and climate resilience priorities, while Fiji also plans wider Customs investigative powers and longer recovery time for unpaid duties. Regional Diplomacy: PNG moves to close Taiwan’s representative office, drawing sharp reaction from Taipei and praise from Beijing. Sports: Kadavu stun Skipper Cup champs Malolo 17-14 in a warm-up, and Fiji’s Baby Bula Boys start strong in the OFC U-16s with a 5-0 win over Samoa.

FICAC Walesi Probe Still Open: Two years on, the Government says the Walesi investigation remains with FICAC, with Policing Minister Ioane Naivalurua telling Parliament the work is ongoing and no completion date has been set. Civil Service “Right-Sizing” Signals: PM Sitiveni Rabuka says Fiji’s civil service review may recommend downsizing as technology and AI take over some functions, while Opposition MPs push back on costs and delays. Budget Watch—Traffic Relief: A $20m package is earmarked for bypasses and road upgrades to cut Suva-area gridlock, including Koronivia Bypass works and widening of key routes. Health—Medicine Shortage Fixes: Health Minister Dr Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu says improved stock monitoring and staff training are meant to reduce medicine shortages despite complaints from MPs. Fisheries—New Tuna Fund: Government launches a $5m Tuna Development Fund to support offshore operators and processing, plus continued aquaculture and marine research. Local Accountability—Police Civilian Pay: Opposition raises equal pay for civilian Fiji Police staff excluded from recent increases, with Government pointing to a job evaluation exercise. Pacific Sports Spotlight: Fiji and PNG both qualify for OFC U-16 semis after commanding wins in Port Moresby.

Duavata Partnership Renewed: New Zealand and Fiji signed a refreshed five-year Duavata deal in Auckland, setting priorities for 2026–2030 across trade, security, democracy, social development and climate resilience, including deeper policing, border and maritime cooperation and talks on the Ocean of Peace Alliance. Budget Heat in Parliament: Independent MP Jone Usamate attacked Fiji’s Cabinet size and civil service costs, while Health Minister Dr Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu said medicine shortages will improve through better stock monitoring and staff training. Roads and Traffic Relief: Government earmarked $20m for bypasses and upgrades, including Koronivia Bypass and Princess Road works, to cut Suva-bound congestion. Police and Drugs: Police Minister Ioane Naivalurua said cocaine finds along Fiji’s coast and islands are being traced, with joint operations helping drive down drug crimes. GBV Response Updated: A revised national service delivery protocol adds measures for technology-facilitated abuse and strengthens survivor-centred referrals. Regional Sport: Fiji and PNG booked OFC U-16 semi-finals with commanding wins, while Fiji’s coconut tree climbing record still stands after a Cook Islands match. Business and Jobs Debate: Business leaders questioned plans to increase the workforce without new job creation, warning local firms can’t hire if the domestic economy isn’t thriving.

Medicinal Cannabis Push: Fiji’s government says 75% of people consulted back exploring a medicinal cannabis industry, following 17 consultations with 518 participants and 12 agencies, as it looks to diversify the economy. Agri Exports & Finance: Food Processors Limited is hunting fresh export markets for fresh and frozen produce (including eggplant, okra, beans, bananas and pineapples) and is considering an MoU with the Fiji Development Bank to help contract farmers access loans. Rugby League World Cup Prep: Fiji Bati coach Mick Potter’s work visa has been approved, clearing the way for him to move to Fiji and step up preparations for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup. Pacific Security Alarm: China’s submarine-launched nuclear-capable missile test in the South Pacific drew condemnation and fresh calls for Pacific security cooperation. Lau Community Focus: Lau residents are being encouraged to return home to build businesses via a new funding facility, while the Lau Provincial Council flags concerns about drugs washing ashore and plans to hear from police. Fiji-Israel Ties: Fiji launched a new Israel Allies Caucus in parliament, with leaders calling it a major step in bilateral relations and support for moving embassies to Jerusalem. Cyclone Early Warnings: Fijians are still using traditional nature signs—like yam vine behaviour and insects—to spot cyclone risk early, alongside modern forecasting.

Gender-based violence support: Fiji has launched a revised National Service Delivery Protocol in Suva, promising faster, safer and better-coordinated help for survivors, including stronger responses to online abuse and clearer guidance for rural and maritime communities. Jobs and skills: ILO education and training head Naren Prasad says Fiji’s growth must create productive jobs and keep people from seeking opportunities overseas, urging a job-centred approach and skills systems that match labour market needs. Pacific security: Australia and Fiji’s Ocean of Peace defence pact is drawing New Zealand interest, with analysts warning smaller states’ concerns may be overlooked. Drugs and the military: Opposition leader Inia Seruiratu wants a bigger RFMF role in the drug fight, while Defence Minister Pio Tikoduadua reiterates military authority must stay under civilian control. Budget and services: Parliament debates include justice tech upgrades and digitisation funding, plus moves to fix teacher pay and clarify that teacher registration doesn’t automatically mean a government job. Health and infrastructure: A $2m True Fitness gym opens in Laqere, while the government defends major roads, bridges and water spending in the 2026/27 Budget. Trade and tourism: Trade ministers gather in Auckland for a major Future of Investment and Trade meeting, and Fiji Airways’ tourism role is highlighted as key to a tourism rebound.

Drug Crackdown: Fiji stepped up maritime enforcement after dozens of cocaine packages washed up on remote shores, with Fiji Navy boarding 98 vessels in two weeks and Fiji Police working with the AFP to trace the source. Constitution Review: President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu urged the Constitution Review Commission to focus on lasting economic opportunities for iTaukei communities, including extending iqoliqoli into Fiji’s EEZ to unlock sustainable income. Food Security Push: Professor Palatasa Havea challenged Fiji’s reliance on imported vegetables, calling for FNU-led research and innovation to strengthen local food production and cut diet-related disease risks. Water Crisis in Taveuni: Residents in parts of Taveuni say inconsistent water carting is keeping children out of school, with families waiting days for deliveries and alleging uneven distribution. Budget & Services: Parliament heard updates on policing funding and teacher salary delays, while the Foreign Affairs Ministry says overseas missions will be judged by measurable economic results. UN & Diplomacy: India launched its SHANTI campaign for a UNSC seat, while China rejected claims it seeks a “sphere of influence” in the Pacific after a missile test.

Pacific Security & Diplomacy: China’s submarine-launched ballistic missile test in the South Pacific has sparked fresh alarm, with Australia calling it “destabilising” and Pacific leaders urging tighter regional cooperation as Fiji and others deepen security ties. Ocean of Peace Alliance: Australia and Fiji’s new pact is now being watched closely as New Zealand weighs joining amid wider Indo-Pacific security moves. Fiji Budget Fight: Opposition MPs hit the 2026-2027 National Budget as fiscally irresponsible, warning it won’t ease cost-of-living pressure or stop brain drain, while the Government says it balances growth and discipline. Health & Social Protection: The Budget boosts health recruitment and hospital services, and funds two specialised rehabilitation centres for vulnerable boys amid the drug crisis. Power & Climate: Energy Fiji’s $2b renewable push targets 60% clean power by 2030 and 90% by 2035, aiming to cut reliance on imported fuel. Water Crisis: A $1m desalination plant in Taveuni remains idle, leaving thousands still dependent on rainwater. Customs Support: Japan will back Fiji Revenue and Customs with a dedicated liaison officer for capacity building. Sports & Rugby: Fiji Rugby says surplus from the England match will help fund the Saweni stadium project, while PM Rabuka defends interim coach Senirusi Seruvakula after two Tests.

Budget Boosts Border Security: Fiji’s 2026–2027 Budget backs a $14.8m immigration push, including work starting in August on an API-PNR passenger risk system, a new Australia-supported border management platform, and $5m for 100,000 blank passport books. Health Crisis Targets: The same Budget flags rising HIV and cancer pressures, citing over 2,000 new HIV diagnoses last year and funding to expand prevention and treatment, plus plans for Fiji’s first radiotherapy to cut the need for overseas care. Climate Disaster Readiness: Pacific leaders are urged to strengthen disaster financing as climate-linked recovery costs are estimated at about 5% of regional GDP, with PCRIC expanding tools and support from its new Fiji headquarters. Pacific Security Tensions: China’s recent nuclear-capable missile test continues to ripple through the region, with New Zealand exploring the Ocean of Peace alliance and officials warning against normalising such launches. Rugby League Investment: Tonga says it’s “daring to dream” after securing a major share of the A$250m Pacific Rugby League Partnership, including stadium upgrades and youth pathways across Fiji, Tonga, Samoa and PNG. Local Business Spotlight: A British veteran has launched what’s believed to be Taveuni’s first Northern Division food truck, using family farm produce and creating local jobs.

Pacific Security: New Zealand is “exploring” joining the Ocean of Peace alliance after Australia and Fiji signed it following China’s long-range ballistic missile test in the South Pacific, with Associate Professor Anna Powles urging Pacific voices stay central as Winston Peters warns the region isn’t a “testing gallery” for outside powers. Fiji Politics & Economy: Deputy Opposition Leader Parveen Bala says political division is hurting investor confidence ahead of Fiji’s Budget response, while PM Sitiveni Rabuka pushes back on debt criticism and calls for a wider look at what borrowing has funded. Budget Debate: Business leaders at a post-Budget forum questioned whether spending is creating jobs and improving tourism towns, arguing people need access to funding to turn plans into growth. Drugs & Community: Rabuka says Fiji’s drug fight can’t rely on raids alone, calling for families, churches, schools and traditional leaders to drive prevention and rehabilitation. Fiji Sport (Youth): Fiji and PNG start strong at the OFC U-16 Men’s Championship in Port Moresby, with Fiji beating New Caledonia 2-0. Fiji Sport (Handball): Fiji’s first-ever women’s U18 handball World Championship squad heads to Romania, but faces a funding gap. Transport Costs: Fiji taxi operators say they’ll keep pushing for another fare review if costs keep rising after the latest increase.

Tourism Tax Row: Finance Minister Esrom Immanuel hit back at Fiji Hotels and Tourism Association boss Fantasha Lockington, saying tourism sector reps met in Suva and agreed to the 5% tourism services tax, after FHTA said it was never consulted and unfairly shifts costs to one industry. Cabinet Cost Debate: Immanuel said there are no plans to cut Cabinet size, but warned deeper minister salary cuts could come if the fuel crisis worsens, while critics pushed for cutting vehicle use and costs. Fiji Navy Crackdown: The Republic of Fiji Military Forces Navy is stepping up maritime patrols under Operation Yadra Matua, boarding and inspecting 98 vessels and using air surveillance to deter illegal activity. Ocean of Peace Move: Fiji welcomed New Zealand’s interest in joining the Ocean of Peace Alliance, saying it will be up to NZ to decide if it fits its national interests. Fiji Airways Pressure: Business leaders urged Fiji Airways to review spending and investments as rising fuel and operating costs mount, including questions over its Sofitel investment and flight routes. Rugby Shockwaves: England thrashed Fiji 73-8 in the Nations Championship, while world rankings shifted with England climbing into the top five. Pacific Security Tensions: Australia continued raising concerns over China’s missile test in the South Pacific, calling it provocative and linking it to the push for stronger regional security.

Government Cost Cuts Debate: A consultant has urged Fiji to cut transport costs by putting ministers into one minibus instead of multiple vehicles, arguing taxpayers are paying for extra drivers, allowances and fuel; Finance Minister Esrom Immanuel pushed back, saying Fiji’s driving habits make it hard to reduce cars, as the government also faces scrutiny after 826 vehicle crashes cost $7.39m in repairs and write-offs. Pacific Security Shock: Australia says China’s long-range, nuclear-capable missile test was “provocative” and has raised concerns with Beijing at multiple levels, coming soon after Australia and Fiji signed a defence pact—while China insists the launch was routine. Fiji–NZ Defence Talks: Fiji welcomed New Zealand’s interest in joining the Ocean of Peace Alliance, saying NZ can decide based on its national interests and foreign policy priorities. Trade Focus: Fiji–Australia business leaders are set to push agriculture as the next big bilateral trade opportunity at a joint forum in Suva. Climate Pressure on Communities: Ekubu village on Vatulele says rising seas and stronger currents are eroding shorelines, shrinking cassava harvests and making fishing harder. Sports: England thrashed Fiji 73-8 in the Nations Championship in Liverpool, ending a losing run.

Nations Championship Rugby: England roared back in style, ending a five-Test losing run with an 11-try 73-8 demolition of Fiji at Hill Dickinson Stadium in Liverpool, with Benhard Janse van Rensburg and Noah Caluori making try-scoring debuts and Henry Pollock bagging a hat-trick as Fiji were reduced after Simione Kuruvoli’s red card. Heat Protocol: Organisers extended half-time to 20 minutes for Fiji v England at Liverpool under World Rugby’s extreme weather measures, adding hydration breaks to protect players. Pacific Disaster Finance: Pacific Catastrophe Risk Insurance Company (PCRIC) opened a new Suva regional base, boosting faster payouts for cyclone and flood-hit countries as climate-linked disasters strain budgets. Cyclone Season Warning: SPREP urged Pacific communities to stay vigilant through the remaining cyclone months and follow daily updates from national meteorological offices. Environment & Tourism: Natadola Beach saw a major cleanup with 300+ people removing rubbish, while Tokoriki Island Resort celebrated another Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards milestone. Local Power Issue: Southern Taveuni families say they’ve waited years for electricity network extension, leaving students and households struggling without reliable power. Sport Beyond Rugby: India announced a historic first-ever men’s football tour of New Zealand with two friendlies on Nov 12 (Auckland) and Nov 15 (Christchurch).

Pacific Security: Fiji and Australia signed the Ocean of Peace Alliance in Suva, a mutual defence pact that also leaves the door open for other Pacific states to join—New Zealand says it will explore partnering, as regional leaders weigh growing pressure after China’s missile tests. Local Governance & Rights: The National Federation Party says Fiji’s constitutional review process should not be rushed, warning new rules need time and supporting legislation before the next election. Disaster Readiness: PCRIC opened a new Suva base to speed up disaster payouts for Pacific countries, aiming to reduce recovery delays as cyclones and floods intensify. Health Crisis: A new look at Fiji’s HIV outbreak argues it’s driven largely by syringe sharing, with pharmacies often refusing sterile equipment without prescriptions. Business & Jobs: Fiji-Australia business talks are set for late August, with leaders pushing agriculture as the next trade focus and warning skilled labour shortages are slowing projects. Environment: One Beach Fiji led a major Natadola Beach cleanup with 300+ people, targeting plastic waste and calling for lasting behaviour change. Sports & Economy: Fiji’s Nations Championship “home” run in the UK is drawing attention, but reports suggest sponsor gaps and the loss of a lead sponsor could blunt the financial upside.

Pacific Security: Australia and Fiji have signed the Ocean of Peace Alliance, with New Zealand now saying it will explore joining—an explicit move to strengthen regional defence as China’s nuclear-capable missile test sparks condemnation across the Pacific. Fiji Politics & Governance: Fiji is registering citizens in Papua New Guinea for the upcoming election and issuing voter ID cards, while Rabuka backs a government-supported voluntary resettlement push for people returning to ancestral villages. Economy & Debt: A World Bank report warns Fiji must take decisive action to bring debt back toward pre-pandemic levels, linking fiscal discipline to recovery and sugar-sector viability. Health: Fiji has launched a new digital HIV module in PATIS Plus to replace paper records and improve patient tracking and surveillance. Climate & Weather: Fiji recorded some of its coldest nights on record in early July, and advocates warn more than 50 communities may face relocation within five years due to sea-level rise and erosion. Sports & Community: Tonga says it’s “daring to dream” after a $250m Pacific rugby league partnership, with grassroots school programs and violence-prevention funding.

Pacific Defence: Australia and Fiji have signed the Ocean of Peace Alliance, with New Zealand’s foreign minister saying NZ could join once it enters into force, as the pact aims to bolster regional peace and security amid China-linked missile concerns. HIV Care Upgrade: Fiji launched a new digital HIV module within PATIS Plus to replace manual records, improving secure patient monitoring, follow-ups, and national disease surveillance. Constitution Review Push: Dialogue Fiji and other voices are weighing in on constitutional reform, including calls for a two-term PM limit, tighter Cabinet caps, stronger judicial and oversight protections, and keeping Fiji’s democratic foundations of the 2013 Constitution. Health & Safety at Home: Police and communications minister Ioane Naivalurua urged villages to declare themselves drug-free, while vendors in Naqara, Taveuni renewed calls for a public restroom. Weather Watch: Fiji recorded some of its coldest July nights on record, with multiple stations setting new minimum temperature records. Tourism Recognition: Two resorts—Likuri and Malolo—were inducted into the Fiji Excellence in Tourism Awards Hall of Fame.