Budget & cost pressures: Former finance minister Biman Prasad defended Fiji’s 2026–2027 National Budget as responsible, with no new taxes and continued support for welfare, agriculture, health, education and SMEs, while economists say it restores stability but offers limited cost-of-living relief. Business confidence: Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation welcomed fuel duty exemptions, extended diesel concessions, lower employer FNFP contributions (to 8%), customs tariff cuts and a big jump in training grant funding. Fuel squeeze: Lands Minister Filimoni Vosarogo said rising fuel costs are still hitting low-income earners and sole breadwinners, with the Tripartite Forum used to discuss wages and living-cost pressures. Agriculture accountability: Agriculture PS Dr Andrew Tukana urged the Ministry to measure real farm impact, not just spending, and Sugar Minister Tomasi Tunabuna promised tighter monitoring of programme use. Sugar season & farmer standoff: Fiji Sugar Corporation confirmed crushing starts July 1 at Lautoka, Rarawai and Labasa, but the National Farmers Union threatened a harvest boycott over the $85/tonne guaranteed cane price, demanding $110. Water & rural power delivery: The Lands Ministry will drill 88 groundwater sites and investigate 111 more for safe drinking water, while the Rural Electrification Fund Board approved new renewable mini-grid rollouts including Koro Island. Transport & infrastructure: The Budget set aside $820.8m for roads, bridges, jetties and rural connectivity, and Fiji Airways said Budget support will help it maintain seat capacity and expand routes. Industry & services: Nadi businesses and the Nadi Chamber pushed for faster execution of the $3m Nadi River Flood Alleviation Project, and the Fiji Taxi Association welcomed the temporary fare adjustment from July 1 but wants a permanent fare review. Creative sector: FBC was named Fiji’s broadcast partner for the inaugural People of the Pasifika 48-Hour Film Challenge in September.