The Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) has launched enforcement action after the scheduled bus operator in Taveuni suspended services for school students during the examination period.

The Commission is investigating whether the decision amounts to unconscionable conduct under Section 76 of the FCCC Act 2010. If the investigation finds the law has been breached, FCCC says it is prepared to take legal action and use the enforcement powers available under the Act.

FCCC described the disruption as unacceptable, noting that the suspension has limited transport options for students and affected their ability to travel to school for examinations.

As the only scheduled bus operator on the island, the company holds a monopoly on the service, leaving residents with few or no practical alternatives. FCCC says businesses providing essential services have a greater responsibility to ensure reliable and uninterrupted access for the communities they serve.

Chief Executive Officer Senikavika Jiuta said children’s education should never be affected by commercial or regulatory disputes. She stressed that operators with monopoly status must act responsibly, while reaffirming that FCCC’s regulatory decisions are made independently, based on evidence, legislation and the public interest.

Jiuta said the Commission’s immediate priority is ensuring students can continue attending school and sitting their examinations without further disruption, while those responsible will also be held accountable if breaches are identified.

FCCC also confirmed it is in the final stage of assessing the operator’s bus fare review application, with a decision expected soon. The Commission said the fare review is being handled separately from the ongoing enforcement process.

In reviewing regulated bus fares, FCCC considers operating costs, including fuel, wages, maintenance, capital investment and a reasonable return on investment, while balancing affordability for passengers with the long-term sustainability of essential transport services.