AGP Executive Report

Rugby Update: Atu Sokobale is ruled out of Fiji’s Nations Championship window with injury, and Worcester prop Livai Natave has been called up to add depth. Child Protection: The Government says children belong in school, not workplaces, as officials mark World Day Against Child Labour and push prevention over rescue. Drug Fight: A former senior police official warns Fiji needs a whole-of-government response to the drug crisis, not just salary rises or one agency acting alone. Online Safety: Ministers met to strengthen online child protection, focusing on better coordination and enforcement against harmful digital content. Sugar Sector: Fiji Sugar Corporation reports its lowest cane production in 2025, blaming drought and saying irrigation trials fell short due to costly equipment needs. Maritime Safety: MSAF urges mariners to check weather and marine notices after a fatal boat incident in Navua. Regional Support: The ADB announces a $4b crisis package for Asia-Pacific economies hit by the Middle East conflict, with Fiji among countries seeking help. Fiji Sports: Suva FC kicks off its 2026 Fiji FACT campaign against defending champions Labasa next Friday.

Fuel, food and jobs pressure: The Asian Development Bank says it is mobilising about $4b to help Asia-Pacific economies hit by the Middle East conflict, with $1b earmarked for trade finance for energy and food imports. Maritime safety: The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji urged mariners to check weather and marine notices after a fatal boat incident in Navua, while heavy swells of up to four metres continue to threaten parts of Fiji. Rescue at Wailoaloa: ATS paddlers helped save a helicopter pilot after a crash landing off Wailoaloa Beach. Sugar crunch: The Sugar Cane Growers Council says limited funding is hurting farmer outreach, and Fiji Sugar Corporation warns sugar stocks could run out by month-end if harvesting doesn’t pick up. Local development: A new Ministry of Agriculture office was commissioned on Rabi Island, and Ra leaders pushed for value-adding local resources and job creation. Sports: Team Fiji’s final Commonwealth Games delegation is set, and Fiji U20 coach Tui Osborne says defence and attack must improve ahead of the Junior World Championship.

Fiji Politics & Rights: Fiji’s UN envoy Filipo Tarakinikini says the Constitution review must be tied directly to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, arguing immunity removal and TRC work are “complementary” and must be handled together. Governance Watch: The Electoral Commission says it won’t monitor Government spending before the election unless it receives formal complaints, after concerns were raised about road and bridge work and possible vote-buying. Online Safety: Communications Minister Ioane Naivalurua confirms talks on banning pornography websites, with enforcement and whether new laws are needed expected to be discussed. Justice & Accountability: UNODC and PINA launched a Pacific-wide anti-corruption journalism push in Suva, training reporters to investigate bribery and misuse of public funds. Local Services: Ra Provincial Council leaders question why a washed-away bridge in Nailuva still isn’t replaced, with students missing school and families struggling to reach services. Maritime & Emergencies: A pilot escaped serious injury after a Robinson R44 helicopter ditched into the sea off Wailoaloa Beach near Nadi; authorities are investigating. Tourism & Business: Accor and Fiji’s Yavu Collective signed a deal to bring Sofitel, TRIBE and The Sebel into Fiji, including Sofitel Fiji Vatu Talei opening in early 2027 and two more properties slated for 2026. Regional Security: Pacific nations reaffirmed their nuclear-free stance as the Rarotonga Treaty marks 40 years. Sports (Fiji-linked): Fiji’s former Flying Fijians coach Mick Byrne denies health claims behind his FRU exit, saying he was removed so Fiji Rugby could “move in a new direction.”

Constitution & Truth Commission: Fiji’s UN envoy Filipo Tarakinikini says constitutional reform must be linked to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, arguing amendments alone won’t break the cycle of coups. Nuclear-Free Pacific: Pacific states reaffirm the Rarotonga Treaty as it marks 40 years, with Suva hosting a meeting to review progress and future priorities. Tourism boost: Fiji Airways launches its first direct Gold Coast–Nadi flights, with Tourism Fiji rolling out a Gold Coast marketing push to grow family, VFR, wedding and honeymoon travel. Hotel investment: Accor and Yavu Collective sign a landmark deal bringing Sofitel, The Sebel and TRIBE into Accor’s network, with Sofitel Fiji Vatu Talei set to open in 2027. Weather & safety: MSAF bans vessels under 15 metres in severe-weather areas, while JRCC Fiji and the Navy rescue five people after an overdue boat in rough seas. Rugby fallout: Mick Byrne rejects claims health issues caused his Fiji exit; FRU says it stands by the decision. Economy pressures: Former Finance Minister Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum warns operating costs have surged to $3.9b, squeezing room for roads and hospitals. Anti-corruption push: UNODC and PINA launch a Pacific investigative journalism programme to tackle corruption and illicit financial flows.

Maritime Safety: The Fiji Navy has issued an urgent no-travel warning for coastal waters, saying rough conditions are putting lives and rescue resources at risk—especially for small boat operators. Human Remains & Health Services: Fiji will install 10 eco-mortuaries after distressing social media claims about bodies being stored in ice-filled eskies on Kadavu, with tenders already approved for Kadavu and several sub-divisional hospitals. Fire Risk in Vacant Buildings: A fire destroyed abandoned staff quarters at Nadroga Navosa Technical College, prompting the National Fire Authority to warn that neglected vacant buildings are increasingly dangerous. Cost of Living & Governance: Former PM Mahendra Chaudhry says Fiji’s poverty and failing infrastructure stem from decades of poor governance, while Unity Fiji’s Savenaca Narube calls for an expatriate Police Commissioner to tackle corruption. Economy & Elections: At the State of the Economy dialogue, calls grew for pre-election spending to be scrutinised to prevent vote-buying, as Fiji faces debt and budget pressure. Tourism Push: Tourism Minister Viliame Gavoka says Fiji needs about 4,000 new hotel rooms to hit 1.25m visitors and $4b earnings by 2027. Sugar Sector Pressure: Cane harvesters and lorry operators in Vanua Levu demand an urgent review of the $20-per-tonne mechanical harvesting rate ahead of crushing season. Police Corruption Probe: A top detective, Serupepeli Neiko, has been directed to go on leave while prosecutors review alleged abuse of office.

Wheelchair Rugby in Fiji: A Fiji National University student’s 2024 exchange in France has helped spark Fiji’s first national wheelchair rugby push, with plans for international competition. Elections & spending scrutiny: Former FICAC commissioner Barbara Malimali and others are urging the Electoral Commission to review government spending ahead of the 2027 election, warning it could look like vote-buying. Police corruption probe: Fiji’s top detective Serupepeli Neiko has been directed to go on leave while prosecutors review alleged abuse of office; police also reject claims corruption is systemic. Human rights pressure: NGOCHR wants all joint Police-RFMF operations suspended over deaths in custody and allegations of torture, calling for independent, public investigations. Economy under strain: At the State of the Fijian Economy Dialogue, stakeholders warned Fiji is running out of fiscal room as debt nears $11.4b, growth forecasts fall, and cost-of-living pressures bite. Health facilities on Kadavu: Fiji plans 10 eco-mortuaries after claims a baby’s body was kept on ice in an esky, with solar-powered options due to power limits. Marine protection target: Fisheries says Fiji aims to designate up to 15% of waters as marine protected areas by end of 2026. Sports & culture: Fiji Airways backs the Fijian Flying Circus on its first Australian tour, while FBC Sports will air Drua Women home games live.

IMF Outlook for Fiji: The IMF says Fiji’s growth is set to slow to 2.4% this year (from 3.2% in 2025) as tourism demand softens, oil prices stay high and debt risks mount, with inflation forecast at 3.8% and further shocks possible if global conflict drags on. Economic Pressure and Governance: Fiscal Review Committee chair Richard Naidu told the State of the Economy Dialogue Fiji lacks urgency and financial buffers, warning a major disaster could cost hundreds of millions; economists also question spending priorities and efficiency. RBF Update: Reserve Bank Governor Ariff Ali revised Fiji’s GDP forecast down to 1.5% and flagged rising inflation pressures from fuel and electricity costs. Water Safety and Compensation: WAF supports stronger Public Health Bill clauses on water catchment protection and accountability, including potential compensation for consumers affected by water quality failures. Sports Council Probe: A Fiji Sports Council investigation report alleging over $1m misuse is expected to be released to Police for further action. Foreign Worker Demand: Immigration Minister Viliame Naupoto says about 4,000 applications for foreign workers were submitted in three months, renewing debate over safeguards for workers’ welfare. Fiji FACT Football: Babasiga Lions aim to defend their BiC Fiji FACT title in Labasa, with regional and overseas signings and a tough pool including Suva and Rewa.

Climate Adaptation: Fiji’s coastal communities are set to get help against rising seas, with a new approach combining seawalls and mangrove restoration to protect villages from flooding and erosion. Energy Costs: New Zealand-backed solar and battery systems have shielded three remote Fiji resorts from an 80% diesel price surge, cutting reliance on fuel shipped by barge. Economy Watch: The Reserve Bank of Fiji has slashed its 2026 growth forecast to 1.5% as fuel prices, inflation and weaker spending bite, with inflation now expected to top 6% by year-end. Public Health Law: Fiji’s Public Health Bill review is raising concerns for resorts and events, as proposed “nuisance” rules around noise could lead to complaints unless clearer standards are set. Justice & Politics: PM Sitiveni Rabuka will appeal a High Court dismissal in the Malimali case, after the court said the High Court lacked authority to stay a declaratory order. Cybercrime Push: Fiji is stepping up cybercrime defences and sharing reforms with Pacific partners, including a regional handbook aimed at practical, Pacific-led coordination. Rugby League: Former Fiji NRL prop Kane Evans says coming out as gay has lifted a “weight” off him, after years battling addiction and suicidal thoughts.

Disaster Fund Scrutiny: Fiji’s PM Disaster Fund records and receipts are not kept by the Office of the Prime Minister, with officials saying the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development manages donations, payments and financial tracking—sparking questions at a parliamentary committee hearing. Water Safety Accountability: The Water Authority of Fiji says contaminated-water victims should be entitled to compensation, calling for stronger accountability when catchment and water supply failures harm communities. Health Preparedness Lessons: Government officials say Fiji is using COVID-19 lessons to improve readiness for future health emergencies, including pandemic planning and strengthening response systems. Local Cleanliness Push: Nasinu Town Council launches “Return and Earn” to cut litter and build civic pride, offering a five-cent refund for eligible beverage containers. Maritime Compliance: MSAF gives seafarers and ship operators one week to ensure medical fitness certificates are valid ahead of nationwide compliance checks. Regional Cybercrime Drive: Pacific legal experts meet in Nadi to finalise a regional handbook to strengthen cybercrime laws and defenses. Schools and Clinics Funding: Australia adds AUD$16m to extend Fiji’s social infrastructure programme to 2028, targeting safer, more inclusive and climate-resilient schools and health facilities. Sports—Handball Growth: Handball Fiji urges more youth to join as new U17, U19 and open clubs begin their season, with teams set to travel to New Zealand for Oceania events. Rugby League—Kane Evans Comes Out: Former Warriors prop Kane Evans publicly comes out as gay, describing addiction, homelessness and rehabilitation. Environment—Seaweed Farming: Fiji expands seaweed farming in Cakaudrove, deploying seedlings and cultivation lines to boost rural incomes and resilience.

Health Budget Focus: Fiji’s Health Minister Dr Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu says the 2026-2027 budget must fully cover salaries, allowances and overtime to prevent disruptions and burnout as staff shortages continue. Australia–Fiji Support: Australia will add $24m in grant funding to upgrade schools and health facilities through Fiji’s Social Infrastructure Programme, extended to Dec 2028. Public Health & Water: The Water Authority of Fiji warns against shutting contaminated water supplies without consultation, saying it could leave hundreds or thousands without safe water and worsen sanitation. Drugs Case in Nadi: Anand Kumar, linked to the alleged importation of 2.6 tonnes of cocaine, has been remanded in custody after appearing in Tavua court. Tsunami Alert Lifted: Fiji has been declared all clear after a tsunami watch following an 8.2 quake near the Philippines; authorities say the risk has passed. Regional Security/Climate: Australia and New Zealand reaffirm Pacific-led regionalism and climate action ahead of the Pacific Islands Forum leaders’ meeting in Palau. Environment & Waste: Environment Minister Lynda Tabuya says Fiji can’t claim climate resilience while pollution and poor waste management keep damaging rivers, reefs and ecosystems. Social Issues in Lautoka: Lautoka City Council is coordinating with Social Welfare and Police over rising street dwellers and street children, including concerns about substance abuse. Constitution Review: A proposal before the CRC seeks to constitutionally protect Sunday as a day of worship and rest. Drug Crisis Warning: Fiji Medical Association says HIV and the drug crisis need a whole-of-government and whole-of-society response, not healthcare alone. Local Development: Cabinet approved a National Development Plan Problem-Solving Team to improve delivery, reporting and accountability for the 2025–2029 NDP.

NFP Election Push: NFP leader Pio Tikoduadua has challenged the party to win 15 seats in the 2027 General Election, warning members to keep growing or rethink the party’s direction. Police Women Empowerment: Women officers were told continuous learning is key to policing, with Fiji Police highlighting resilience and career development at a two-day workshop in Labasa. Doctors’ Concerns: The Fiji Medical Association says young doctors face fatigue, uncertainty, financial pressure and delayed postings, calling for stronger training pathways and practical skills before graduation. Maritime Update: Natovi Jetty has reopened for normal operations after hazard removal works, with restricted marine notices revoked. Disability Inclusion: Fiji reaffirmed its commitment to disability rights and inclusion under a 2025-2035 national policy, aiming to improve access and opportunities for more than 120,000 people. Agriculture on Beqa: The Agriculture Ministry unveiled a plan to shift Beqa farmers from subsistence to commercial farming, including off-season tomato production and support to tackle yaqona dieback. Aviation Link: Fiji Airways will restore direct Nadi–Nouméa flights from 22 September, twice weekly, using Fiji Link ATR aircraft. Bordeaux Sevens Fallout: Fiji’s men and women fell in Bordeaux playoffs, while Shujaa’s promotion hopes hang after a tough tournament start. Health & Rights Lawmaking: Parliament heard environmental health officers face abuse and assault while protecting communities, and the Consumer Council urged safeguards in Fiji’s Public Health Amendment Bill to require scientific support for compulsory measures. Justice Probe: Investigations continue into the death of Sakiasi Ose Radravu, with police saying it was linked to a pre-existing condition while 12 officers remain under investigation.

Police Accountability: Family of Sakiasi Radravu has asked Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu for an independent post-mortem and preservation of records after allegations he was assaulted during a raid; Police say a recent post-mortem linked his death to a pre-existing medical condition, while 12 officers remain under investigation. Drug Crime: A Nadi businessman has been charged over the alleged importation of more than 2.6 tonnes of cocaine seized at Vatia, with court appearance set for Monday. Public Health Law: Parliament heard calls to tighten Fiji’s Public Health Amendment Bill—consumer groups want compulsory vaccinations and treatment only ordered with scientific support, and MPs say equal fines for businesses and informal-settlement residents are unfair. Waste and Environment: Environment Minister Lynda Tabuya urged better waste disposal as Fiji launches a National Integrated Waste Management and Pollution Control Strategy and its first National Plastics Inventory; meanwhile, the Environment Department rejected a Vuda waste-to-energy proposal. Maritime Security: Japan will provide four vessels to boost Fiji’s maritime surveillance as Fiji targets drug trafficking threats. Constitution Review: Submissions to the CRC in Nadi included calls for term limits for leaders and for the GCC to appoint the President. Sports (Fiji in focus): Fiji’s Bula Boys played Vanuatu in a friendly, while Fiji’s men and women in sevens faced tough results in Bordeaux.

HSBC SVNS Sevens: Canada beat Fiji 29-14 in Bordeaux to reach the women’s semifinals, where they face New Zealand, after Savannah Bauder starred with three tries. Fiji Rugby (Men’s Sevens): South Africa’s Blitzboks edged Fiji 14-12 in a dramatic Bordeaux quarterfinal to defend their world title, setting up another semifinal clash after a tense rematch. Constitution Review Commission: In Nadi, residents urged tougher drug bail rules and called for political leaders to serve no more than two terms, alongside wider governance and land-related recommendations. Public health: Fiji launched a nationwide push against dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases with support from the GX Foundation, including rapid test kits, nets and control supplies. Transport costs: Taxi operators renewed calls for urgent fuel relief, saying rising costs are crushing small businesses while fares have barely changed since 2011. Fiji Rugby League: Mick Potter was confirmed as head coach of Fiji Bati, with work permits and preparations for upcoming matches now underway.

Fiji Rugby & Sport: Fiji’s national football team is set to blood a new generation, with six Extra Bula FC youngsters in line for senior debuts against Vanuatu today, led by 16-year-old Maikah Dau. Sevens Spotlight: The Vailima International Marist Sevens final is set at Apia Park, with Tepatasi taking on Yaro Chiefs after both won their semi-finals, while the women’s final will see Tagimoucia play No Idea. Maritime Safety: Natovi Jetty will close for 24 hours from 8am Sunday (June 7) after an underwater survey found submerged boulders that could endanger vessels, with berthing and unloading suspended during repairs. Public Health: Fiji has launched a nationwide push against dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases, backed by the GX Foundation, including rapid test kits, nets, lamps and fly sticky papers. Cost of Living & Transport: The Fiji Taxi Association is calling for government relief as fuel prices and operating costs bite hard, arguing taxi fares have barely changed since 2011. Governance & Accountability: Fiji’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs says questions about embassy costs and operations are legitimate, pointing to audits, reporting and parliamentary oversight. Community & Climate: Yasawa-i-Rara residents are urgently seeking help as coastal erosion and rising seas worsen since 2019.

Sports Funding: Fiji’s National Sports Commission says its budget request for 2026/27 could rise to $30m, up from $13m this year, to cover Team Fiji for the 2027 Pacific Games and set up a High Performance Unit. SVNS Rugby (Men): Fiji 7s beat Great Britain 26-12 in Bordeaux after a strong second half, with Apete Narogo scoring twice; Fiji’s next pool match is against Brazil. SVNS Rugby (Women): Fijiana started their Bordeaux campaign with a 24-12 win over Japan, with Reapi Ulunisau scoring a double; they face Brazil next. Sevens (Shujaa): Kenya’s Shujaa were edged 31-12 by Fiji in their Bordeaux opener. Va’a Success: Former Fiji Va’a juniors Andrew Peters and Tomasi Andrea shine at the European Championships in London, with Peters taking gold. Health Warning Signs: A Pacific Islands expert warns illicit drugs and related health risks are spreading beyond Fiji, pointing to meth traces in wastewater in Tonga and drug “narco-subs” in the Solomons. Climate & Energy: ISA and the World Bank launched a Pacific SIDS solar dialogue in Bali, focusing on investment-ready solar and storage projects including for Fiji. Travel Connectivity: Fiji Airways will resume direct Nadi–Nouméa flights from September 22, twice weekly, boosting seats and regional links. Football: Fiji’s Bula Boys play Vanuatu in Port Vila today in their first of two FIFA friendlies.

Fiji–EU Fisheries: Fiji and other Pacific fisheries officials met in Suva to train on new EU rules that tighten freezer-vessel freezing and traceability, with the changes expected to affect about 97% of EU-listed Pacific vessels exporting to the bloc. Climate Finance Push: Fiji’s Environment Minister Lynda Tabuya urged donors to make climate funding faster and simpler for small island states, warning the world is moving too slowly as risks intensify. Quad Port Plan Doubts: Analysts are questioning the Quad’s proposed Fiji port project, with concerns the security bloc may not stay committed amid shifting priorities. Nasinu Waste Drive: Nasinu Town Council launched the Return and Earn initiative to cut litter and help residents earn money by returning bottles and cans for recycling. RFMF Charges: Former PM Voreqe Bainimarama and ex-police chief Sitiveni Qiliho pleaded not guilty in Suva over alleged attempts to undermine RFMF leadership. Fuel Pressure & Housing: The Consumer Council urged earlier fuel-price announcements after panic buying, while the Fiji Institute of Environmental Health wants minimum rental housing standards added to the Public Health Amendment Bill. Suva Culture & Rugby: A Taijiquan cultural exchange drew locals in Suva, and Fiji Rugby Union unveiled three major player-welfare initiatives ahead of the Nations Championship.