Praneeta Prakash 
The Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation says that promising stable fuel supplies and no price hikes, only to announce overnight increases, is damaging private sector confidence.
Chief Executive Edward Bernard is calling on the government to clearly communicate its plans and messaging in relation to the fuel crisis.
Bernard says in times of crisis, there must be clear and precise plans and messaging reaching businesses and the public.
He says business continuity depends on advanced planning and robust contingency plans against disruptions.
“The private sector acknowledges government constraints and recognizes that this is a global crisis, which will translate to an increase in the cost of doing business. However, the government must ensure that our alignment to ensuring the ease of doing business is maintained – this requires clear and precise planning, and messaging.”
Meanwhile, FCEF President Eldon Eastgate also says that an overnight increase of up to 35 percent for diesel and 20 percent for petrol will impact business planning and have a direct impact on goods and services.
Eastgate says that while most businesses have a continuity plan, understanding the government’s plan of action and having this clearly communicated is imperative.
He adds that the business community and public are looking forward to hearing about any national plans that will support business sustainability so that customers can be adequately served and workers can continue to be employed.
