Fees and Charges a Key Concern for Biosecurity Authority

The Biosecurity Authority of Fiji has raised concerns about fees and charges during their presentation of the 2011-2013 Annual Report to the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence.

Acting CEO Surend Pratap emphasized the need for regulatory updates, citing that while Fiji’s inflation rate has averaged 2-3% annually, the cumulative increase over the past decade has been around 30%.

Despite this, fees and charges have remained unchanged, prompting a review to sustain essential services.

Pratap highlighted the Authority's commitment to enhancing border control and security through upgraded technologies and diagnostic tools to prevent pests and diseases.

Committee Chair Lenora Qereqeretabua acknowledged the informative nature of the submission, which also addressed challenges like staff retention.

She noted that these issues, along with fees and charges, will be forwarded to the Cabinet by the Ministry of Public Enterprises.