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Minister Akbar backs Budget 2016

November 16, 2015 6:22 pm

Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation Rosy Akbar has praised the 2016 Budget, calling it creative and one that benefits those Fijians who need it the most.

Akbar says the $52.2 million allocation, an increase of $6.4 million from last year, will efficiently assist the ministry with its targeted assistance.

“The reduction of VAT complements the Ministry’s food voucher program in addition, the expansion of the free medicine, the subsidized electricity, water and bus fare subsidy will further assist low income families. So all in all this is a budget that is welcomed by those who I have responsibility for in my portfolio.”

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Akbar urged retailers to ensure the new prices and duty reductions announced by the government are passed on to consumers come 1st January.