Mollyn Nakabea 
FCCC Chief Executive Officer Senikavika Jiuta says any decision to adjust regulated fares must be based on verified operating costs. [Photo: FILE]
The Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission is monitoring the impacts of the fuel price on the country’s maritime and minibus sectors after completing a preliminary assessment on the situation.
The FCCC says no final decision has been made and it will continue monitoring market conditions before making a decision.
The commission consulted industry stakeholders to consider operational information and recent fuel price trends to assess the impact of cost pressures on by service providers and to determine whether fare adjustments were justified.
The commission is conducting surveillance exercises with the Land Transport Authority to ensure compliance with the regulated rates within the transport sector.
The FCCC says it has received complaints about fare increases on non-regulated rural and trunk routes.
Although these routes are not regulated by the commission, FCCC says it is working with the LTA to assess the concerns and determine the appropriate response.
FCCC Chief Executive Officer Senikavika Jiuta says any decision to adjust regulated fares must be based on verified operating costs while balancing the interests of transport operators and consumers.
Jiuta says the commission has a responsibility to ensure any fare increase is necessary and supported by evidence.
The FCCC says it will continue monitoring global fuel markets and industry conditions and will take regulatory action if required.
Consumers who experience overcharging or unfair trading practices are encouraged to report the matter to the FCCC.
