The Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation have commended the 2016 National Budget.

Federation president Himen Chandra says the budget was largely people centred.

Chandra applauded Governments move in maintaining much of its fiscal and monetary policies an ongoing request made to them by many of the private sector bodies.

He adds that the federation was pleased that government has taken heed of the needs and concerns of business and entrepreneurs who operate in the SMEs business space through removal of stamp duty for SMEs, OHS and fire levies.

He was also pleased to note the Government’s plan to extend the new tax free zones to include Rewa Bridge through to Tailevu, Rakiraki and to Mataiwalu in Ba.

Chandra says the 2016 budget promotes a healthier and a stronger economy leading to more money in the pockets of the average citizen.