APRC and FCEF Host Tariff Masterclass in Suva

The Asia Pacific Regulatory Centre (APRC), in partnership with the Fiji Commerce & Employers Federation (FCEF), this week hosted a Strategic Tariff & Cost-of-Living Masterclass in Suva aimed at helping business and policy leaders better understand how tariff decisions affect the economy.

The session was conducted by Joel Abraham and brought together private sector representatives, regulators and policy stakeholders to examine the economic principles behind tariff setting and cost-of-living pressures in Fiji and other small island economies.

APRC is a regional organisation focused on strengthening regulatory systems, improving market design and supporting informed dialogue between governments, regulators and the private sector across the Asia-Pacific. The Fiji Commerce & Employers Federation represents the interests of employers and businesses in Fiji.

The masterclass focused on moving beyond reacting to tariff increases and instead engaging strategically with regulatory decisions. Participants explored how tariffs influence business competitiveness, inflation, household affordability, investor confidence and long-term economic growth.

Key topics discussed included cost-of-service and price cap methodologies, Regulatory Asset Base (RAB) and Weighted Average Cost of Capital (WACC) principles, risk allocation between utilities, consumers and government, and how regulatory decisions flow through to the wider economy.

Organisers said understanding the regulatory framework allows stakeholders to participate more constructively in tariff discussions and contribute to better policy outcomes.

APRC said it remains committed to promoting stronger regulatory literacy and dialogue across the Pacific to help balance affordability, sustainability and investment confidence.