THE Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association (FHTA) is pushing for urgent updates to outdated liquor laws to create fairer and safer regulations.
A call for modernising liquor laws highlights that current rules are decades old and do not suit modern communities or tourism growth.
“Current regulatory framework allows liquor outlets to operate in proximity to residential areas, selling alcohol with minimal visible oversight,” said Fantasha Lockington, Chief Executive of the FTHA.
“It is common to see drinking taking place immediately outside or behind these premises, creating public order concerns and placing unnecessary strain on enforcement agencies.
“The social consequences are not abstract. They are experienced daily by families, neighbourhoods and businesses alike.”
Hotels face a complex annual license renewal process with repeated document submissions despite a digital portal meant to simplify it, while they pay higher fees and follow strict trading hours, yet less-regulated outlets face fewer checks.
The demand for a fair and consistent regulatory framework aims to protect communities and support responsible businesses.
Lockington said this imbalance was neither equitable nor logical.
FHTA is urging the relevant authorities to modernise the Liquor Act to ensure consistency in regulation, stronger and more visible enforcement, and a level playing field for all operators.
“A contemporary framework would better safeguard communities, support businesses that uphold the highest standards, and reinforce Fiji’s standing as a safe, well-regulated and quality tourism destination.”