CCoF, FCCC and TAF Unite to Address Internet Service Gaps in Fiji

FIJI NEWS

8/31/20252 min read

The Consumer Council of Fiji (CCoF), the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC), and the Telecommunications Authority of Fiji (TAF) have joined forces to tackle widespread consumer concerns about internet services across the country.

The collaboration follows a nationwide survey conducted earlier this year by the Consumer Council, which highlighted key frustrations among Fijians. Consumers reported fluctuating pricing structures, unreliable connectivity, slow internet speeds, inequitable access in rural and maritime areas, and unsatisfactory customer service and complaint handling. The findings confirm systemic issues that continue to undermine fair and reliable access to digital services in Fiji.

Consumer Council CEO, Seema Shandil, said the evidence collected is already shaping coordinated work by the three agencies. “The Internet is a fundamental enabler of education, business, and social connection. Our joint efforts are focused on the pressing issues identified by consumers, ensuring that service providers are held accountable, pricing structures are fair, and Fijians can rely on consistent connectivity. Consumers deserve value for their money and the confidence that their concerns will lead to meaningful improvements,” she said.

Telecommunications Authority of Fiji CEO, Prit Chand, emphasised the regulator’s role in ensuring service quality. “Internet and data services are now essential for every Fijian household, whether it’s for school, business, health, or simply staying connected with family. As the regulator, TAF’s responsibility is to ensure providers deliver what they promise, and that consumers get fair value for the money they spend. Through this collaboration, we are looking closely at service quality — things like speed, reliability, and coverage — to make sure they match what is advertised. We also want complaints resolved faster and billing to be more transparent,” Mr Chand explained.

FCCC CEO, Senikavika Jiuta, also underscored the need for strong oversight in the sector. “Reliable internet is no longer a luxury, but a necessity that underpins our economy and society, requiring oversight to protect Fijian consumers. As the regulator, FCCC is committed to ensuring that pricing practices are transparent and competitive, while also safeguarding consumers from unfair treatment. This collaboration is about driving systemic change, making sure that providers not only meet their obligations but also deliver services that are accessible, affordable, and fair for all Fijians, whether in urban centres or rural and maritime communities,” Ms Jiuta said.

The three agencies say this is the start of a sustained push to lift the overall performance of Fiji’s digital services sector, holding providers accountable while working to ensure every Fijian has access to reliable, affordable, and fair internet.