The Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation (FCEF) is calling on the Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations to implement an agreed increase in meal allowances for workers.

FCEF says it has been more than eight months since the agreement was reached.

FCEF Chief Executive Officer Bernard said the increase would help workers afford meals as food prices continue to rise.
He said employers had agreed to increase meal allowances gradually over three years, starting in 2025. FCEF also supported having the same meal allowance across different sectors.

According to FCEF, its decision was based on discussions with employers, information on food prices and International Lab our Organization (ILO) conventions.

Bernard also said employers support improving workers’ income, health and productivity through increased allowances.
However, he criticised calls by unions for a new living wage system. He said businesses could only manage a certain amount of increases before they faced financial difficulties or had to reduce staff.

FCEF is calling on the Ministry of Employment to take the necessary steps to put the agreed meal allowance increase into effect.