The Fiji Commerce & Employers Federation (FCEF) calls on the Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations to immediately expedite the
legislative requirements to increase the meal allowance agreed to last year

“It is over 8 months now since the tripartite agreed to the increase in meal
allowance. Once implemented, it will support workers access decent meals and
mitigate against high food prices”, said Mr Bernard, CEO for the Fiji Commerce &
Employers Federation (FCEF).

In good faith, FCEF moved significantly from its original position to support a gradual
increase in meal allowance over the next three years, starting in 2025. FCEF’s
position was informed by employer consultations, extensive analysis of the
Consumer Price Index (CPI) and alignment with International Labour Organization
(ILO) Conventions 131, 135, and 144.

“FCEF not only agreed to the phased increase starting in 2025 but also the
standardisation of meal allowances across all sectors. This was primarily pushed by
FCEF to ensure that there is equity across all sectors and workers”, said Mr Bernard

Mr Bernad added that while FTUC is focused on introducing a totally new wage
system called living wage, employers are supporting efforts to improve the general
incomes, health and productivity of workers through increasing such allowances.

“The default by unions is always to increase wages and now they want a new wage
system introduced. They need to understand that there is only so much wage squeeze businesses can bear before they break or start laying off staff”, said Mr.
Bernard.

-END-
 
For enquiries, contact:
Mrs. Gaylene Kamali Manager Advocacy and Corporate Communication,
Fiji Commerce & Employers Federation
T: +679 331 3188| M: +679 9983098 | E: macc@fcef.com.fj | www.fcef.com.fj