Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to inclusive growth and responsible fiscal management during the Fiji Development Bank’s (FDB) first-ever Post-Budget Stakeholders Engagement in Namaka, Nadi, on Friday (05/07/25).

Addressing a packed hall of private sector representatives, civil society actors, and members of the public, Professor Prasad said the 2025–2026 National Budget was shaped by extensive public consultations and is rooted in the Coalition Government’s people-first approach to policymaking.

“This budget is about putting people first. We have prioritised critical sectors such as health, education, agriculture, infrastructure, and law enforcement, while also managing our finances with prudence,” he said.

Highlighting a major fiscal achievement, the Minister noted that Fiji’s debt-to-GDP ratio had decreased significantly; from 90% to around 77% in just two years. He added that this progress allowed for increased public investment while maintaining fiscal discipline.

“We are not just managing numbers. We’re making space to stimulate the economy, improve service delivery, and invest in infrastructure, all while strengthening our economic fundamentals,” he said.

Professor Prasad also spoke of a renewed focus on modernising outdated government practices, particularly in the civil service and development institutions, stressing the need to move away from a “business-as-usual” mentality.

The forum showcased growing public interest in budget discussions, with participants engaging openly with the Minister on key allocations and national priorities. According to Professor Prasad, the rise in both pre- and post-budget participation is a welcome sign of a more democratic and transparent governance approach.

“The Fiji Development Bank’s initiative to host this engagement reflects a collective commitment to transparency, dialogue, and inclusive economic development,” he added.

The forum also highlighted signs of economic confidence, including real growth in private investments and increased engagement from the Fijian diaspora.

FDB’s Post-Budget Stakeholders Engagement marks a milestone in Fiji’s fiscal dialogue, aligning with the broader vision of transforming Fiji into a high-income economy within the next decade through sound planning and strategic investment.