Retail Businesses in Lami, Suva, Nausori Corridor Can Now Operate: Koya

In a progressive effort to safely resume more economic activity, the Ministry of Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport and the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, have released protocols to allow for re-opening of the Retail sector. The protocols establish the requirements for safely operating businesses in ways that mitigate the risk of the transmission of COVID-19.

Fiji’s retail sector has been amongst the hardest hit by the pandemic.

This has especially been the case for nonessential retail in the Lami-Suva-Nausori containment zone, which have been closed for over two months.

“Without COVID-safe pathways to open, many risk shutting down permanently, costing Fijian families’ years of hard-earned progress and jobs that many count on,” said the Minister for Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport, Faiyaz Koya.

“These protocols pave the way for retail businesses to operate safely in line with our COVID-safe mitigation strategy, so they can employ Fijians and stimulate vital economic activity.

“These businesses –– and the Fijians they employ –– have not been forgotten or overlooked. Instead, these important economic contributors will sit at the heart of a strong recovery,” added Mr Koya.

Permit to Operate

Retail businesses must apply for a ‘Permit to Operate’ using the online COVIDpass portal www.covidpass.mcttt.gov.fj and must submit documents, including signed protocols and COVID Safe plans or Standard Operating Procedures by July 15, 2021.

Suva Retailers Association President Jitesh Patel said: “The Association believes that we have a shared responsibility to ensure that our family, staff and customers are safe and this will only be possible with our collective efforts and by working together.

“All members are reminded to adhere to all necessary COVID-safe protocols enforced by the Ministry of Health and Medical Service such as wearing of masks, use of the careFIJI App, maintain social distancing and restricting any and all unnecessary movements,” said Mr Patel.

Outside Nausori-Suva-Lami containment zone

While retail businesses outside the Nausori-Suva-Lami containment zone do not need to apply, they must adhere to the protocols.

“Despite being closed, we’ve seen businesses pivot and adapt to the new norm.

“Whether it’s increasing its digital presence, or offering completely new products. Fijians must remember that all economic considerations are taken, together with health and safety.

“No business, however large or small, will be permitted to operate if they are not following the protocols set by the Fijian Government,” said Mr Koya.

“Authorities will not hesitate to shut down and take businesses to task, should they fail to comply with the protocols.

“We are doing our part, by creating a safe environment for businesses to operate again, and we urge all Fijians to do theirs. And one way every Fijian and every Fijian business can do this, is by getting vaccinated. That will remain key,” added Minister Koya.

Only essential business

Currently, only essential business and those with special approval can operate in the Lami-Suva-Nausori containment zone.

For the rest of Viti Levu, with the exception of ‘high-risk’, all other businesses can operate.

All businesses in the North and our maritime islands, can operate following all COVID safe protocols.

As part of the next phase, the Ministry of Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport is now considering protocols to safely reopen restaurants, food courts and gyms in Viti Levu. Fijians are reminded that restaurants in Viti Levu remain open for takeaway only with no in-dining services.