Category: Active Members Area

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Important Reminders for FHTA Members (Updated 11.06.21)

Glen Vavaitamana Active Members Area, Board Members, Resources

REMINDERS

EXTENSION OF VALIDITY FOR LTA PERMITS AND LICENSES
The government has gazetted the Land Transport (COVID-19 Response) Regulations 2021 which seeks to extend the validity of any permit, license, certificate or registration that expires or is due for renewal on or after 14 May 2021 but before 14 August 2021.

EXTENSION FOR LODGMENT OF TAX RETURNS
FRCS wish to advise all taxpayers and tax agents, who are affected by the COVID-19 movement restrictions, lockdown and containment zones that the timeline for lodgment of tax returns that are due for lodgment during the months of April to December 31st 2021 is further extended to be filed by 31st December 2021. Accordingly, all late lodgment penalties will be waived. Please note the waiver for this penalty can be applied for through the Taxpayer Online Services. Should you require any assistance on this, please email tpos@frcs.org.fj.

FHTA REMUNERATION SURVEY
To FHTA members who may have been contacted by KPMG with regard to participating in the FHTA Remuneration Survey, we wish to remind you that the data received through this survey will be used to provide a benchmark for tourism industry to assist members in determining their own remuneration rates.
Contact info@fhta.com.fj if you have not received the survey information and wish to do so OR if you do not wish to participate in the survey or require some assistance in completing the survey.

LTA eSERVICES DURING PERIOD OF RESTRICTED MOVEMENT
The Land Transport Authority responded to FHTA’s request for customer updates during this time and they advised that while their branches are open, they are discouraging personal visits except in cases of real urgency.

You must register with their eServices or via the LTA app, which will allow for reminders for the expiry of licenses or roadworthiness. This should give you adequate time to ensure compliance with LTA’s mandated regulations.

LIMITED MSAF SERVICES DURING PERIOD OF RESTRICTED MOVEMENT
The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji will be providing limited services for the whole of Fiji, for the duration of restricted movement. They have released a list of contact people for specific concerns or you can email info@msaf.com.fj for general enquiries.

FHTA wishes to remind members of the current restrictions on maritime passenger and cargo movement as indicated in MSAF’s Marine Notice 22/2021.
You can subscribe to the MSAF website to get contactless automatic updates into your email.

MSAF STCW REGULATED FEES LIST
The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji has included the regulated fees list for their Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping

STREAMLINING OF FRCS CUSTOMER SERVICES – TAXPAYER ONLINE SERVICES
The Fiji Revenue & Customs Services (FRCS) released a public notice advising the general public that in an effort to streamline their services and timely responses to online queries, they have introduced the following:
1 – All issues/queries/complaints related to the TPOS can now be emailed directly to the following email address: tpos@frcs.org.fj
2 – All issues/queries/complaints related to Pay As You Earn (PAYE) emailed to payefinal@frcs.org.fj will now be coordinated through tpos@frcs.org.fj
3 – All taxpayers and tax agents are assured that all their issues/queries/complaints sent to this email address will be acknowledged as soon as it is received
4 – Customers making general enquiries related to tax and customs matters can continue to send their queries to email address info@frcs.org.fj or call 324 3000 or 1326 (hotline)

REMINDER ON TLTB RENT ASSESSMENT UPDATE FOR TOURISM LEASES

Further to FHTA’s ongoing discussions with the ITaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) on the current economic situation for tourism businesses due to border closures, we provide the following outcomes kindly agreed to by TLTB:

The rent reassessment of tourism leases due for 2021 and 2022 will be deferred. We understand 2020 reassessment have already been released and many of these have been agreed to and paid for. Members who are unable to pay must contact TLTB immediately to agree to and sign a formal arrangement.

1 – Interest on rent from 1 January 2020 – 31 December 2022 will be waived until further notice.
2 – Tenants who are able to pay the applicable rents based on gross receipts must continue to do so
3 – Tenants unable to pay gross receipts in 2021 will pay 80% of the minimum rent in 2021 and 50% in 2022.
4 – All tenants will be required to sign a formal undertaking with TLTB, including agreements for payment schedules where selected.
5 – Applicable penalties for development lease breaches will be waived
6 – There is no waiver on the benefits to landowners such as education and community developments and these must be paid per your agreements.

The above measures have been kindly agreed to by TLTB to assist tourism operators during these challenging times. Where full payments are possible, these should be made in good faith as the TLTB is a Trustee for the Landowners and has a duty to ensure that the Landowners receive their fair dues.

Please contact your TLTB Account Manager to formalise arrangements.

HOTEL LICENSE RENEWAL
The HLB cannot waive the hotel license renewal fee as this would require a change to the Regulations that govern them with the amendment formally gazetted.
However, for properties that are currently closed and have been or will remain closed for a significant period of time, you may contact the HLB in writing informing them that you are currently closed and the date on which you ceased operations. The HLB, in turn, will effectively close your file and will not follow up on renewal.
Once you are ready to begin operations again, you may reapply for a hotel license and go through the process again where you will be required to obtain the 4 authorities reports. (Police, Fire, Health and District Officer/PA).

Please address all written correspondence to:
Mereoni Kalokalodrau (Ms.)
Secretary, Hotel Licensing Board 
P.O. Box 2213 Government Buildings, Suva
Government of Fiji
or via email to mereoni.kalokalodrau@ag.gov.fj

EXTENSION OF TIME FOR DIGITAL REREGISTRATION ON COMPANIES AND BUSINESS NAMES
Please note that the final date for the digital reregistration of companies and business names has been extended to 31 July 2021. The Regulations for the extension of time were gazetted on 19 March 2021.

You are encouraged to reregister as soon as possible if you haven’t done so already.
– Companies (including foreign companies) and business names registered under the Companies Act 2015 on or after 14 June 2019 are not required to apply for registration.
– Only business names need to be renewed periodically, one year following reregistration. The period of renewal can be for one year, 3 years, 5 years, 7 years or 10 years.
– Online applications of all digital registrations (companies, foreign companies and business names) must be filed with the Registrar of Companies by 31 July 2021.
– Companies (including foreign companies) that fail to re-register by the due date will be deemed deregistered /struck off the register of foreign companies as the case may be. The assets and liabilities of the de-registered company will become the property of the Registrar of Companies.
– Business names that fail to be re-registered by the due date (or extended due date) will be deemed to be struck off. Business name owners who continue to use this name will be in breach of the business name use.

Lists of all companies, foreign companies and business name holders that have applied and are yet to apply for digital reregistration with the Registrar of Companies are available on the Ministry of Justice website – www.justice.gov.fj

This list is collated and published by FHTA PRO

Important Reminders for FHTA Members (Updated 29.05.21)

Glen Vavaitamana Active Members Area, Board Members, Resources

REMINDERS

NEW PROTOCOLS FOR BUSINESS OPERATIONS
Members are advised that there are new protocols in place for Business Operations. Currently, this only extends to essential services and essential support businesses.
Please sight the Non-Negotiable Protocols and ensure this is strictly adhered to as failure to comply will result in the closing of your business for the duration of the period of restricted movement.
For tourism operators, you are required to be Care Fiji Commitment (CFC) approved to be operational. If your property hasn’t completed the CFC Programme, send a request mail to Tourism Fiji on cfc@tourismfiji.com.fj and they will furnish you with the necessary documents to be completed.
For any further queries and/or clarification on Essential Business Operations and Movement, you may call 163.

EXTENSION OF VALIDITY FOR LTA PERMITS AND LICENSES
The government has gazetted the Land Transport (COVID-19 Response) Regulations 2021 which seeks to extend the validity of any permit, license, certificate or registration that expires or is due for renewal on or after 14 May 2021 but before 14 August 2021.

EXTENSION FOR LODGMENT OF TAX RETURNS
FRCS wish to advise all taxpayers and tax agents, who are affected by the COVID-19 movement restrictions, lockdown and containment zones that the timeline for lodgment of tax returns that are due for lodgment during the months of April to December 31st 2021 is further extended to be filed by 31st December 2021. Accordingly, all late lodgment penalties will be waived. Please note the waiver for this penalty can be applied for through the Taxpayer Online Services. Should you require any assistance on this, please email tpos@frcs.org.fj.

FHTA REMUNERATION SURVEY
To FHTA members who may have been contacted by KPMG with regard to participating in the FHTA Remuneration Survey, we wish to remind you that the data received through this survey will be used to provide a benchmark for tourism industry to assist members in determining their own remuneration rates.
Contact info@fhta.com.fj if you have not received the survey information and wish to do so OR if you do not wish to participate in the survey or require some assistance in completing the survey.

LTA eSERVICES DURING PERIOD OF RESTRICTED MOVEMENT
The Land Transport Authority responded to FHTA’s request for customer updates during this time and they advised that while their branches are open, they are discouraging personal visits except in cases of real urgency.

You must register with their eServices or via the LTA app, which will allow for reminders for the expiry of licenses or roadworthiness. This should give you adequate time to ensure compliance with LTA’s mandated regulations.

LIMITED MSAF SERVICES DURING PERIOD OF RESTRICTED MOVEMENT
The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji will be providing limited services for the whole of Fiji, for the duration of restricted movement. They have released a list of contact people for specific concerns or you can email info@msaf.com.fj for general enquiries.

FHTA wishes to remind members of the current restrictions on maritime passenger and cargo movement as indicated in MSAF’s Marine Notice 22/2021.
You can subscribe to the MSAF website to get contactless automatic updates into your email.

MSAF STCW REGULATED FEES LIST
The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji has included the regulated fees list for their Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping

STREAMLINING OF FRCS CUSTOMER SERVICES – TAXPAYER ONLINE SERVICES
The Fiji Revenue & Customs Services (FRCS) released a public notice advising the general public that in an effort to streamline their services and timely responses to online queries, they have introduced the following:
1 – All issues/queries/complaints related to the TPOS can now be emailed directly to the following email address: tpos@frcs.org.fj
2 – All issues/queries/complaints related to Pay As You Earn (PAYE) emailed to payefinal@frcs.org.fj will now be coordinated through tpos@frcs.org.fj
3 – All taxpayers and tax agents are assured that all their issues/queries/complaints sent to this email address will be acknowledged as soon as it is received
4 – Customers making general enquiries related to tax and customs matters can continue to send their queries to email address info@frcs.org.fj or call 324 3000 or 1326 (hotline)

REMINDER ON TLTB RENT ASSESSMENT UPDATE FOR TOURISM LEASES

Further to FHTA’s ongoing discussions with the ITaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) on the current economic situation for tourism businesses due to border closures, we provide the following outcomes kindly agreed to by TLTB:

The rent reassessment of tourism leases due for 2021 and 2022 will be deferred. We understand 2020 reassessment have already been released and many of these have been agreed to and paid for. Members who are unable to pay must contact TLTB immediately to agree to and sign a formal arrangement.

1 – Interest on rent from 1 January 2020 – 31 December 2022 will be waived until further notice.
2 – Tenants who are able to pay the applicable rents based on gross receipts must continue to do so
3 – Tenants unable to pay gross receipts in 2021 will pay 80% of the minimum rent in 2021 and 50% in 2022.
4 – All tenants will be required to sign a formal undertaking with TLTB, including agreements for payment schedules where selected.
5 – Applicable penalties for development lease breaches will be waived
6 – There is no waiver on the benefits to landowners such as education and community developments and these must be paid per your agreements.

The above measures have been kindly agreed to by TLTB to assist tourism operators during these challenging times. Where full payments are possible, these should be made in good faith as the TLTB is a Trustee for the Landowners and has a duty to ensure that the Landowners receive their fair dues.

Please contact your TLTB Account Manager to formalise arrangements.

HOTEL LICENSE RENEWAL
The HLB cannot waive the hotel license renewal fee as this would require a change to the Regulations that govern them with the amendment formally gazetted.
However, for properties that are currently closed and have been or will remain closed for a significant period of time, you may contact the HLB in writing informing them that you are currently closed and the date on which you ceased operations. The HLB, in turn, will effectively close your file and will not follow up on renewal.
Once you are ready to begin operations again, you may reapply for a hotel license and go through the process again where you will be required to obtain the 4 authorities reports. (Police, Fire, Health and District Officer/PA).

Please address all written correspondence to:
Mereoni Kalokalodrau (Ms.)
Secretary, Hotel Licensing Board 
P.O. Box 2213 Government Buildings, Suva
Government of Fiji
or via email to mereoni.kalokalodrau@ag.gov.fj

EXTENSION OF TIME FOR DIGITAL REREGISTRATION ON COMPANIES AND BUSINESS NAMES
Please note that the final date for the digital reregistration of companies and business names has been extended to 31 July 2021. The Regulations for the extension of time were gazetted on 19 March 2021.

You are encouraged to reregister as soon as possible if you haven’t done so already.
– Companies (including foreign companies) and business names registered under the Companies Act 2015 on or after 14 June 2019 are not required to apply for registration.
– Only business names need to be renewed periodically, one year following reregistration. The period of renewal can be for one year, 3 years, 5 years, 7 years or 10 years.
– Online applications of all digital registrations (companies, foreign companies and business names) must be filed with the Registrar of Companies by 31 July 2021.
– Companies (including foreign companies) that fail to re-register by the due date will be deemed deregistered /struck off the register of foreign companies as the case may be. The assets and liabilities of the de-registered company will become the property of the Registrar of Companies.
– Business names that fail to be re-registered by the due date (or extended due date) will be deemed to be struck off. Business name owners who continue to use this name will be in breach of the business name use.

Lists of all companies, foreign companies and business name holders that have applied and are yet to apply for digital reregistration with the Registrar of Companies are available on the Ministry of Justice website – www.justice.gov.fj

This list is collated and published by FHTA PRO

Important Reminders for FHTA Members (Updated 21.05.21)

Glen Vavaitamana Active Members Area, Board Members, Resources

REMINDERS

TOURISM VACCINATION PROGRAMME
FHTA is working with the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MoHMS) to confirm a schedule of visits to the different regions as soon as the next batch of vaccines is ready to be rolled out.

As done previously, FHTA requests members to provide us with your overall number of staff who are yet to be vaccinated. This information will be used to assist the MoHMS in its targeted vaccination rollout campaign for the tourism industry. Please submit your requested staff numbers via email to info@fhta.com.fj by Friday, 29 May 2021.

Your earliest response would be appreciated. If submitting info for more than one property, break down staff numbers by property.

FHTA MEMBER MARINE SURVEY
FHTA is requesting members who are ship owners; vessel operators; have staff who are shipmasters or vessel crew; as well as those who use vessels for passenger travel, cargo transportation or watersport activities; to complete the following survey to assist FHTA in determining license and crew qualification requirements to enable us to assess our members’ needs for full compliance in preparation for when borders reopen. We are working with MSAF and training providers with scheduling marine surveys and required training to support full compliance.

Please complete the survey and send it to info@fhta.com.fj by 30th May 2021.

COMPLETE SURVEY

FHTA REMUNERATION SURVEY
To FHTA members who may have been contacted by KPMG with regard to participating in the FHTA Remuneration Survey, we wish to remind you that the data received through this survey will be used to provide a benchmark for tourism industry to assist members in determining their own remuneration rates.
Contact info@fhta.com.fj if you have not received the survey information and wish to do so OR if you do not wish to participate in the survey or require some assistance in completing the survey.

FLIGHT CANCELLATIONS FOR FIJI AIRWAYS / FIJI LINK
In light of the continued movement restrictions in Fiji, Fiji Airways and Fiji Link have extended flight cancellations as follows:

All domestic Fiji Link passenger flights have been cancelled until 30 May 2021 (inclusive).
All international Fiji Airways passenger repatriation flights into and out of Fiji have been cancelled until 30 May 2021 (inclusive).
Dedicated freighter services will continue to ensure vital export and import supply chains for Fiji remain intact.

The Fiji Airways website has been updated with this information accordingly, along with options available to customers. Impacted customers are also being notified of the changes through the contact details in their booking.

LTA eSERVICES DURING PERIOD OF RESTRICTED MOVEMENT
The Land Transport Authority responded to FHTA’s request for customer updates during this time and they advised that while their branches are open, they are discouraging personal visits except in cases of real urgency.

You must register with their eServices or via the LTA app, which will allow for reminders for the expiry of licenses or roadworthiness. This should give you adequate time to ensure compliance with LTA’s mandated regulations.

LIMITED MSAF SERVICES DURING PERIOD OF RESTRICTED MOVEMENT
The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji will be providing limited services for the whole of Fiji, for the duration of restricted movement. They have released a list of contact people for specific concerns or you can email info@msaf.com.fj for general enquiries.

FHTA wishes to remind members of the current restrictions on maritime passenger and cargo movement as indicated in MSAF’s Marine Notice 22/2021.
You can subscribe to the MSAF website to get contactless automatic updates into your email.

MSAF STCW REGULATED FEES LIST
The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji has included the regulated fees list for their Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping

STREAMLINING OF FRCS CUSTOMER SERVICES – TAXPAYER ONLINE SERVICES
The Fiji Revenue & Customs Services (FRCS) released a public notice advising the general public that in an effort to streamline their services and timely responses to online queries, they have introduced the following:
1 – All issues/queries/complaints related to the TPOS can now be emailed directly to the following email address: tpos@frcs.org.fj
2 – All issues/queries/complaints related to Pay As You Earn (PAYE) emailed to payefinal@frcs.org.fj will now be coordinated through tpos@frcs.org.fj
3 – All taxpayers and tax agents are assured that all their issues/queries/complaints sent to this email address will be acknowledged as soon as it is received
4 – Customers making general enquiries related to tax and customs matters can continue to send their queries to email address info@frcs.org.fj or call 324 3000 or 1326 (hotline)

REMINDER ON TLTB RENT ASSESSMENT UPDATE FOR TOURISM LEASES

Further to FHTA’s ongoing discussions with the ITaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) on the current economic situation for tourism businesses due to border closures, we provide the following outcomes kindly agreed to by TLTB:

The rent reassessment of tourism leases due for 2021 and 2022 will be deferred. We understand 2020 reassessment have already been released and many of these have been agreed to and paid for. Members who are unable to pay must contact TLTB immediately to agree to and sign a formal arrangement.

1 – Interest on rent from 1 January 2020 – 31 December 2022 will be waived until further notice.
2 – Tenants who are able to pay the applicable rents based on gross receipts must continue to do so
3 – Tenants unable to pay gross receipts in 2021 will pay 80% of the minimum rent in 2021 and 50% in 2022.
4 – All tenants will be required to sign a formal undertaking with TLTB, including agreements for payment schedules where selected.
5 – Applicable penalties for development lease breaches will be waived
6 – There is no waiver on the benefits to landowners such as education and community developments and these must be paid per your agreements.

The above measures have been kindly agreed to by TLTB to assist tourism operators during these challenging times. Where full payments are possible, these should be made in good faith as the TLTB is a Trustee for the Landowners and has a duty to ensure that the Landowners receive their fair dues.

Please contact your TLTB Account Manager to formalise arrangements.

HOTEL LICENSE RENEWAL
The HLB cannot waive the hotel license renewal fee as this would require a change to the Regulations that govern them with the amendment formally gazetted.
However, for properties that are currently closed and have been or will remain closed for a significant period of time, you may contact the HLB in writing informing them that you are currently closed and the date on which you ceased operations. The HLB, in turn, will effectively close your file and will not follow up on renewal.
Once you are ready to begin operations again, you may reapply for a hotel license and go through the process again where you will be required to obtain the 4 authorities reports. (Police, Fire, Health and District Officer/PA).

Please address all written correspondence to:
Mereoni Kalokalodrau (Ms.)
Secretary, Hotel Licensing Board 
P.O. Box 2213 Government Buildings, Suva
Government of Fiji
or via email to mereoni.kalokalodrau@ag.gov.fj

EXTENSION OF TIME FOR DIGITAL REREGISTRATION ON COMPANIES AND BUSINESS NAMES
Please note that the final date for the digital reregistration of companies and business names has been extended to 31 July 2021. The Regulations for the extension of time were gazetted on 19 March 2021.

You are encouraged to reregister as soon as possible if you haven’t done so already.
– Companies (including foreign companies) and business names registered under the Companies Act 2015 on or after 14 June 2019 are not required to apply for registration.
– Only business names need to be renewed periodically, one year following reregistration. The period of renewal can be for one year, 3 years, 5 years, 7 years or 10 years.
– Online applications of all digital registrations (companies, foreign companies and business names) must be filed with the Registrar of Companies by 31 July 2021.
– Companies (including foreign companies) that fail to re-register by the due date will be deemed deregistered /struck off the register of foreign companies as the case may be. The assets and liabilities of the de-registered company will become the property of the Registrar of Companies.
– Business names that fail to be re-registered by the due date (or extended due date) will be deemed to be struck off. Business name owners who continue to use this name will be in breach of the business name use.

Lists of all companies, foreign companies and business name holders that have applied and are yet to apply for digital reregistration with the Registrar of Companies are available on the Ministry of Justice website – www.justice.gov.fj

FNPF EXTENDS CONTRIBUTION PAYMENTS TO 31 MAY
FNPF has extended the deadline for contribution payments to 31 May 2021, in response to the continuous lockdown restrictions.

The Fund understands that many businesses were shut down to comply with the lockdown and this has affected their cash flow and ability to submit contribution payments for their staff.

Effective from Wednesday 19 May, the Fund’s opening hours will be from 8:30 am to 3.30 pm Monday to Thursday and 8:30 am to 3 pm on Friday.

This list is collated and published by FHTA PRO

Important Reminders for FHTA Members (Updated 08.05.21)

Glen Vavaitamana Active Members Area, Board Members, Resources

REMINDERS

CURFEW PASS PROTOCOL UPDATED
Members have faced problems with police while transporting staff during curfew hours. The Commissioner of Police has confirmed that while the process is mostly the same, per Government announcement on 30.03.20, the authorization letter must be processed weekly.

Tourism operators are to email their approved staff list to westpol.com@gmail.com and CC to lalashnil@gmail.com for approval. This list will be stamped, scanned and sent back to the hotels for their drivers to carry in their vehicles at all times. In the event that Police stop your work vehicles, the authorization letter should then be presented.

If you face any issues, please contact Police Inspector Ashnil Lal directly on 9905292

LTA eSERVICES DURING PERIOD OF RESTRICTED MOVEMENT
The Land Transport Authority responded to FHTA’s request for customer updates during this time and they advised that while their branches are open, they are discouraging personal visits except in cases of real urgency.

You must register with their eServices or via the LTA app, which will allow for reminders for the expiry of licenses or roadworthiness. This should give you adequate time to ensure compliance with LTA’s mandated regulations.

LIMITED MSAF SERVICES DURING PERIOD OF RESTRICTED MOVEMENT
The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji will be providing limited services for the whole of Fiji, for the duration of restricted movement. They have released a list of contact people for specific concerns or you can email info@msaf.com.fj for general enquiries.

FHTA wishes to remind members of the current restrictions on maritime passenger and cargo movement as indicated in MSAF’s Marine Notice 22/2021.
You can subscribe to the MSAF website to get contactless automatic updates into your email.

MSAF STCW REGULATED FEES LIST
The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji has included the regulated fees list for their Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping

STREAMLINING OF FRCS CUSTOMER SERVICES – TAXPAYER ONLINE SERVICES
The Fiji Revenue & Customs Services (FRCS) released a public notice advising the general public that in an effort to streamline their services and timely responses to online queries, they have introduced the following:
1 – All issues/queries/complaints related to the TPOS can now be emailed directly to the following email address: tpos@frcs.org.fj
2 – All issues/queries/complaints related to Pay As You Earn (PAYE) emailed to payefinal@frcs.org.fj will now be coordinated through tpos@frcs.org.fj
3 – All taxpayers and tax agents are assured that all their issues/queries/complaints sent to this email address will be acknowledged as soon as it is received
4 – Customers making general enquiries related to tax and customs matters can continue to send their queries to email address info@frcs.org.fj or call 324 3000 or 1326 (hotline)

FHTA REMUNERATION SURVEY
To FHTA members who may have been contacted recently by KPMG with regard to participating in the FHTA Remuneration Survey, we wish to remind you that the data received through this survey will be used to provide a benchmark for the tourism industry to assist members in determining their own remuneration rates.
Contact info@fhta.com.fj if you have not received the survey information and wish to do so OR if you do not wish to participate in the survey or require some assistance in completing the survey.

REMINDER ON TLTB RENT ASSESSMENT UPDATE FOR TOURISM LEASES

Further to FHTA’s ongoing discussions with the ITaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) on the current economic situation for tourism businesses due to border closures, we provide the following outcomes kindly agreed to by TLTB:

The rent reassessment of tourism leases due for 2021 and 2022 will be deferred. We understand 2020 reassessment have already been released and many of these have been agreed to and paid for. Members who are unable to pay must contact TLTB immediately to agree to and sign a formal arrangement.

1 – Interest on rent from 1 January 2020 – 31 December 2022 will be waived until further notice.
2 – Tenants who are able to pay the applicable rents based on gross receipts must continue to do so
3 – Tenants unable to pay gross receipts in 2021 will pay 80% of the minimum rent in 2021 and 50% in 2022.
4 – All tenants will be required to sign a formal undertaking with TLTB, including agreements for payment schedules where selected.
5 – Applicable penalties for development lease breaches will be waived
6 – There is no waiver on the benefits to landowners such as education and community developments and these must be paid per your agreements.

The above measures have been kindly agreed to by TLTB to assist tourism operators during these challenging times. Where full payments are possible, these should be made in good faith as the TLTB is a Trustee for the Landowners and has a duty to ensure that the Landowners receive their fair dues.

Please contact your TLTB Account Manager to formalise arrangements.

HOTEL LICENSE RENEWAL
The HLB cannot waive the hotel license renewal fee as this would require a change to the Regulations that govern them with the amendment formally gazetted.
However, for properties that are currently closed and have been or will remain closed for a significant period of time, you may contact the HLB in writing informing them that you are currently closed and the date on which you ceased operations. The HLB, in turn, will effectively close your file and will not follow up on renewal.
Once you are ready to begin operations again, you may reapply for a hotel license and go through the process again where you will be required to obtain the 4 authorities reports. (Police, Fire, Health and District Officer/PA).

Please address all written correspondence to:
Mereoni Kalokalodrau (Ms.)
Secretary, Hotel Licensing Board 
P.O. Box 2213 Government Buildings, Suva
Government of Fiji
or via email to mereoni.kalokalodrau@ag.gov.fj

EXTENSION OF TIME FOR DIGITAL REREGISTRATION ON COMPANIES AND BUSINESS NAMES
Please note that the final date for the digital reregistration of companies and business names has been extended to 31 July 2021. The Regulations for the extension of time were gazetted on 19 March 2021.

You are encouraged to reregister as soon as possible if you haven’t done so already.
– Companies (including foreign companies) and business names registered under the Companies Act 2015 on or after 14 June 2019 are not required to apply for registration.
– Only business names need to be renewed periodically, one year following reregistration. The period of renewal can be for one year, 3 years, 5 years, 7 years or 10 years.
– Online applications of all digital registrations (companies, foreign companies and business names) must be filed with the Registrar of Companies by 31 July 2021.
– Companies (including foreign companies) that fail to re-register by the due date will be deemed deregistered /struck off the register of foreign companies as the case may be. The assets and liabilities of the de-registered company will become the property of the Registrar of Companies.
– Business names that fail to be re-registered by the due date (or extended due date) will be deemed to be struck off. Business name owners who continue to use this name will be in breach of the business name use.

Lists of all companies, foreign companies and business name holders that have applied and are yet to apply for digital reregistration with the Registrar of Companies are available on the Ministry of Justice website – www.justice.gov.fj

2021-2022 NATIONAL BUDGET CONSULTATIONS
The Ministry of Economy has commenced preparations for the 2021-2022 National Budget and is calling all Fijians to provide their views and ideas for the upcoming Budget. The Ministry of Economy invites all Fijians, including civil society and non-governmental organisations, women, youth, senior citizens, Fijians living with disabilities, other grassroots organisations and representatives from the private sector to participate in this year’s consultation and voice their views and opinions on the 2021-2022 National Budget. Fijians can make written submissions which can be posted, hand-delivered or e-mailed by 14 May 2021 to the following addresses:

POSTAL DELIVERY
Budget Consultations 2021-2022
Ministry of Economy
P.O. Box 2212
Government Buildings
Suva

HAND DELIVERY
Budget Consultations 2021-2022
Ministry of Economy
Level 10, Ro Lalabalavu House
Victoria Parade
Suva

EMAIL
Subject: Budget Consultations 2021-2022
budgetconsultation@economy.gov.fj

This list is collated and published by FHTA PRO

Extension of Time for Company Reregistration

Glen Vavaitamana Active Members Area, Resources

The digital registration of companies and business names has been extended to 31st March 2021. This was advised by Government on 31 December 2020.

All existing business names, companies and foreign companies registered prior to 14 June 2019 must digitally register on the Registrar of Companies digital registry. Digital registration is completely free. Entity name, entity number and date of registration will not change.

To complete the digital registration process you will need an active e-profile account to login and submit an application online HERE. You can digitally register using an e-profile account or a ROC Pass.

International Travel Awards, Spa Awards, Dining Awards 2021 Nominations are Open

Glen Vavaitamana Active Members Area, News
International Travel Awards, Spa Awards, Dining Awards 2021 Nominations are Open

Visit https://internationaltravelawards.org/ to register or enter your hotel, tourism board, attractions, theme parks and travel companies for International Travel Awards 2021.

The International Travel Awards is one of the most prestigious awards for the tourism and hospitality industry in the world. The Award is organized every year by KSA Tourism Marketing and aims to recognize the excellent performers in the tourism and hospitality industry around the world.

Nominees are invited to join the Year 2021 award program. The award categories are created carefully to suit each and every business vertical in the tourism industry. The eligible nominees are from Hospitality industry such as Hotels, Resorts, Villas, Service apartments, Travel companies such as DMCs, Tour Operators and Travel Agents, Airlines, Tourism Boards, Attractions, Theme Parks, Water Parks & other categories in the tourism industry.

The year 2021 is getting bigger and better. Yes, KSA Tourism marketing has planned to host 3 awards on a single stage. International Dining Awards 2021 and International Spa Awards 2021 join together with International Travel awards 2021 to make the biggest tourism event of the year 2021.

The award program offers a great platform for the nominees to promote their brand globally through various channels such as PR, Media, Social Media, Online news portals & etc.

The nominations for the International Travel Awards 2021 are now open for all six regions Asia, Europe, Middle East, Africa, America, and Oceania. This year’s Award will combine 3 awards: International Travel Awards, International Dining Awards, and International Spa Awards. Over 100,000 international travels and professionals from the tourism industry will vote to select the winners.

International Dining Awards 2021 is crafted to recognise & reward the best service providers in the restaurant & food industry around the world. The nominees are from individual restaurants, multi-country restaurant chains, Hotel restaurants and any companies offering services in the restaurant and food industry around the world. Visit http://internationaldiningawards.com/ to register your restaurant.

International Spa Awards 2021 is designed to identify the best performers in the Wellness and Spa industry and reward them to promote their spa brand globally to the next great heights. The nominees are from individual spa and wellness centres, Hotel Spa, Spa Chain around the world. Visit https://internationalspaawards.com/ to register your Hotel spa or resort spa for international spa awards 2021.

Every year 2,000+ tourism and hospitality industry companies from 110+ countries take part in the Award to compete in more than 150 categories of Award. All the nominees receive ample opportunities to promote their tourism brand to the next level.

Jury Team
The dedicated team of Jury comes from a wide range of tourism backgrounds with each bringing their skill, enthusiasm, and experience to select, and showcase the participants on the international level.

The Jury team reviews each nomination, understands their USP and makes sure that the right company is chosen as a winner every year.

The jury team for the Awards will comprise 35% of the team from Hospitality, 18% from the Tourism Board, 14% from Media and PR, 11% from Tourism Associations, 10% from Corporates related to the travel and tourism industry, 9% from Tour Operators, and 3% from leading Travel Companies across the world.

Nominee Benefits
Nominated organizations will get promotions on social media platforms of International Travel Awards.
Organizations will get an opportunity to submit PR about their organization in the News section of the International Travel Awards and get a chance to create a strong branding among more than 50,000 travel trade professionals across the globe.
All the nominations will be assigned to a key account manager to help them reach the winning circle.
The company will also get a chance to feature in the nomination section of the official Awards Website.
During the gala event, Winners will be eligible to receive the winning package such as winner badge, winner certificate, a dedicated announcement video and lot more. Winners of the awards will receive huge recognition, branding, and marketing opportunities across the world.

A few of the nominees from the 2020 Awards are Banyan Tree, Visit Maldives ( Tourism Board), The Kempinski, Hilton, Four Seasons, Fairmont, Shangri La, Atlantis the palm, Vivanta, The Chedi, Yas Water World, Viceroy Bali, Sentosa, Warner Bros Abu Dhabi, Hanging Gardens of Bali, Swissotel, Marriott, Radisson Blu, COMO Maldives, Dark Sky Portugal, Bayat Hotels, Le Grand Bellevue, Four Points by Sheraton, Crowne Plaza, Doubletree by Hilton, The Westin Ubud, So Sofitel.

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Daylight Saving 2020

Cheryl Fong Active Members Area, Board Members
Daylight Saving 2020

Thursday, 22 October 2020 – As per Government of Fiji Gazette Supplement no.41 dated 08th October 2020 by the Hon. Minister for Employment, Productivity & Industrial Relations, Praveen Kumar Bala, Daylight Savings 2020 will commence from 2.00am on Sunday, 20th December 2020 and end on Sunday, 17th January 2021.

Members of the Public will need to turn their clocks 1 hour forward on 20th December 2020 and back 1 hour on 17th January 2021.

Legal Notice 91: Daylight Saving Order 2020

FHTA Notice of Annual General Meeting 2020

Cheryl Fong Active Members Area
FHTA Notice of Annual General Meeting 2020

Notice  is hereby given that the 55th Annual General Meeting of the Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association (FHTA) will be held as follows:

Date: Thursday, 27th August 2020
Venue: Radisson Blu Resort Fiji, Denarau
Time: 4.00 PM*

The AGM e-Report is now accessible online here. No hard copies of the report will be distributed.

*To ensure that we have a quorum on the day of the AGM and a proper attendance roll for the official AGM Minutes, we request that you complete the online registration form to confirm your attendance no later than 4 pm on Wednesday, 26th August 2020.

If you are unable to attend the AGM, either in person or through zoom, email admin@fhta.com.fj to note your apologies.

We stress that the information provided is strictly confidential and for the access and use of FHTA Members only. The sharing of this information is strictly discouraged.

FHTA Notice of Annual General Meeting 2020

Cheryl Fong Active Members Area, Board Members
FHTA Notice of Annual General Meeting 2020

Notice  is hereby given that the 55th Annual General Meeting of the Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association (FHTA) will be held as follows:

Date: Thursday, 27th August 2020
Venue: Radisson Blu Resort Fiji, Denarau
Time: 4.00 PM*

The AGM e-Report is now accessible online here. No hard copies of the report will be distributed.

To ensure that we have a quorum on the day of the AGM and a proper attendance roll for the official AGM Minutes, we request that you complete the online registration form to confirm your attendance no later than 4 pm on Wednesday, 26th August 2020.

We stress that the information provided is strictly confidential and for the access and use of FHTA Members only. The sharing of this information is strictly discouraged.

Read more

FHTA Situational Update No. 22

Glen Vavaitamana Active Members Area, Board Members
SENT TO MEMBERS ON TUESDAY 21 APRIL 10.02AM
The FHTA Secretariat wishes to bring your attention to the following information:
1. Key Points of Government’s Announcement yesterday
  • Confirmed cases of COVID-19 stands at 18
  • 3 of the 18 cases have recovered from COVID-19
  • Ban on social gatherings still stands
  • 8pm-5am National curfew still stands
Read full announcement HERE
2. Fiji Cabinet Reshuffle
Prime Minister – Minister of Foreign Affairs
Inia Seruiratu – Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management & Minister of Defence, National Security and Policing
Jone Usamate – Minister for Infrastructure and Meteorological Services and Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources
Faiyaz Koya – Minister for Commerce, Trade and Tourism & Minister for Transport
Premila Kumar – Minister for Local Government and the Minister for Housing and Community Development
Dr Mahendra Reddy – Minister for Agriculture and the Minister for Waterways and Environment
3. SeaFiji Barge Services for Mamanuca Resorts
Barge/Cargo services – Monday, Wednesday, Friday – Vessel departs Port Denarau at 9:30am and departs Mamanucas at 13:00pm. 1 tonne of cargo per transfer.
Contractors/essential staff transfer – Monday, Wednesday, Friday – Vessel departs Port Denarau at 9:30am and departs Mamanucas at 11.00am. All passengers are to have photo identification with them at all times.
All cargo and passengers are to be booked 24 hrs  in advance to reservations@seafiji.net or 675-0611.
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If you seek further clarification, contact the FHTA Secretariat on email info@fhta.com.fj or the contact details below:

FHTA Situational Update No. 21

Glen Vavaitamana Active Members Area, Board Members
SENT TO MEMBERS ON FRIDAY 17 APRIL 10.41AM
The FHTA Secretariat wishes to bring your attention to the following information:
1. Key Points of Government’s Announcement yesterday
  • A new case has been confirmed by the PM. Fiji now has 17 confirmed cases of COVID-19
  • State of natural disaster declared in response to COVID-19
  • Quarantine period now extended to 28 days
  • Vunicagi settlement in Vanua Levu to be under lockdown for 28 days
  • Lockdown for Soasoa will be extended for next 14 days
  • Suva lockdown has been lifted, as of 5am today
  • Fiji Muslim League settlement in Nabua is still a high-risk region and will continue to be under lockdown
  • Nationwide curfew remains in place (8pm to 5am)
  • Public gatherings are still not permitted
  • Schools will remain closed until 15 June, but this is subject to change
  • Businesses in Suva are permitted to open, except gyms, cinemas, pools and nightclubs which are to remain closed for the entire country
2. Fiji Airways Schedules Weekly Freighter Services

Fiji Airways has scheduled weekly further freighter services to/from Los Angeles, Sydney and Auckland. The freighter services will operate to Auckland on Fridays, to Los Angeles on either Friday or Saturday, and to Sydney on Mondays.
3. Maritime Travel Restrictions Outlined [REMINDER]
 
The Ministry of Infrastructure, Transport, Disaster Management and Meteorological Services in consultation with relevant maritime stakeholders wishes to recommend the following on all inter-island shipping movements.
Small crafts and yachts
For small crafts that intend to travel carrying important provisions between Viti Levu and closer islands – please call Maritime Surveillance Centre (MSC) on 3315380 and notify the centre on their travel intentions. The following information must be conveyed:
  1. Name of Boat Captain;
  2. Name and Number of Crew (Max of 3);
  3. Cargo;
  4. Departure and Destination Point;
  5. MSAF Issued Boat Number; and
  6. Phone Contact.
For further clarifications and queries, please do not hesitate to contact Fiji Navy on 9904618 or 7356367.
All fishing related activities
Please note that fishing for subsistence and commercial purposes will be allowed during the curfew hours, as long as fishermen leave their home ports well-before curfew hours. For any fishing related activities and clarifications, please contact Ministry of Fisheries on 9966745 or on email mere.lakeba@govnet.gov.fj.
See the full statement HERE
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If you seek further clarification, contact the FHTA Secretariat on email info@fhta.com.fj or the contact details below:

FHTA Situational Update No. 20

Glen Vavaitamana Active Members Area, Board Members
SENT TO MEMBERS ON TUESDAY 14 APRIL 3.15 PM
On Sunday 12th April 2020 upon the advice of the Emergency Committee, the government has declared a State of Natural Disaster for the following areas:

1. Eastern Division ( Kadavu and Southern Lau)
2. Central Division: Tailevu North, Korovou, Nausori, Nakasi, Beqa and Yanuca
3. Western Division: District of Nadarivatu, Vatulele, the Mamanuca Group, the Yasawa Group, coastal communities in the Coral Coast and along the Sigatoka River in the Nadroga/ Navosa Province.
This is to exercise the powers conferred on the Cabinet by section 17 of the Natural Disaster Management Act 1998.
The State of National Disaster will be in effect for the next 30 days.
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The FHTA Secretariat is now working remotely due to the Suva City lockdown, BUT we will be on email info@fhta.com.fj or the contact details below:

FHTA Situational Update No. 19

Glen Vavaitamana Active Members Area, Board Members
SENT TO MEMBERS ON WEDNESDAY 8 APRIL 10.31AM
Special Weather Bulletin No 13 for Fiji on Severe Tropical Cyclone Harold issued from RSMC Nadi at 9:09am on Wednesday the 8th of April 2020
 
TROPICAL CYCLONE WARNING
A hurricane warning remains in force for southern parts of Viti Levu [from Momi through to Coral Coast to Pacific Harbour], Beqa,Vatulele, Kadavu, Matuku, Vatoa and Ono-i-Lau.
A storm warning remains in force for the rest of Viti Levu, Lomaiviti, Moala, Totoya, Vanuavatu and the rest of southern LauGroup.
A gale warning remains in force for the Yasawa and Mamanuca group, for the rest of the Lau group, Vanua Levu, Taveuni and nearby smaller Islands.
A strong wind warning remains in force for the rest of Fiji.
A damaging heavy swell warning remains in force for Yasawa and Mamanuca group, western and southern coast of Viti Levu, Vatulele, Beqa, Kadavu, yasayasa Moala, Lomaiviti and southern Lau group.
A heavy rain warning remains in force for the Fiji group.
A flash flood warning remains in force for low lying areas and small streams within the Rakiraki catchment and is now in force for the rest of the low-lying areas and small streams within catchments inFiji.
Severe tropical cyclone Harold centre 950hpa category 4 was located near 18.2 south 175.8 east or about 180 kilometres west-southwest of Nadi or about 270 kilometres west-northwest of Kadavu at 6.00am today.
Close to its centre the cyclone is estimated to have average winds upto 185 km/hr with momentary gusts to 260 km/hr. The cyclone is currently moving east-southeast at about 30 km/hr.
On this track, the cyclone centre is expected to be located about 170 Kilometres east-southeast of Kadavu or 200km west-northwest of Ono-I-Lau at 6pm today and about 330 kilometres east-southeast of Ono-I-Lau at 6am tomorrow.
Destructive and damaging winds are likely to begin a few or several hours before the cyclone centre passes nearby.
For the southern parts of Viti Levu [from Momi through to Coral Coast to Pacific Harbour], Kadavu, Beqa, Vatulele, Matuku, Vatoa andOno-i-Lau: Very destructive hurricane force winds with speeds up to 170 km/hr and momentary gusts to 240 km/hr. Periods of rain, heavy at times with squally thunderstorms. Damaging heavy swells with sea flooding of low-lying coastal areas expected during high tides, with storm surge heights upt o 2 meters expected along the coasts when centre passes nearby.
For the rest of Viti Levu, Moala, Totoya, Vanuavatu, Lomaiviti andthe rest of southern Lau group: Destructive storm force winds with speeds up to 110 km/hr and momentary gusts to 155 km/hr. Periods of rain, heavy at times with squally thunderstorms. Localised heavy rain may lead to flash flooding of low-lying areas. Damaging heavy swells with sea flooding of low-lying coastal areas expected during high tides, with storm surge heights up to 2 metres expected along the coasts when centre passes nearby.
For Yasawa and Mamanuca group, Lakeba, Cicia and the rest of the LauGroup, Vanua Levu, Taveuni and nearby smaller islands: Damaging gale force winds with average speeds up to 85 km/hr and Momentary gusts to 120 km/hr. Periods of rain, heavy at times and Squally thunderstorms. Localised heavy rain may lead to flash flooding of low-lying areas. Sea flooding of low-lying coastal areas expected during high tides.
For the rest of Fiji: Strong winds with average wind speeds of 55km/hr with momentary gusts to 80km/hr from tomorrow. Periods of rain, heavy at times and Squally thunderstorms.
Localised heavy rain may lead to flash flooding of low-lying areas.
The following information is provided especially for the mariners:
For southwest Viti Levu, Kadavu passage, southern Koro sea and southern Lau waters:Very destructive hurricane force winds up to 90 knots gusting to 125 Knots. Phenomenal seas. Damaging heavy swells of more than 4 meters expected.
For Yasawa and Mamanuca waters, northern Lau waters, northern Koro Sea and Vatu-i-Ra passage: Damaging gale force of up to 45 knots with gusts to 60 knots. High Seas. Damaging heavy swells expected.
For northern Vanua Levu waters: Northerly winds 20 to 30 knots gusting to 45 knots. Rough to very rough seas.
The next special weather bulletin on severe tropical cyclone Harold will be issued around 12:00pm today or earlier.
THE EMERGENCY CONTACTS ARE 915 FOR NDMO OR 1539 FOR MARITIME EMERGENCY.
For more details, please refer to the latest Special Weather bulletin for the Fiji group on

https://www.met.gov.fj/aifs_prods/20021.txt

For live radar, refer to the link below for precipitation and Harold’s movement:
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The FHTA Secretariat is now working remotely due to the Suva City lockdown, BUT we will be on email info@fhta.com.fj or the contact details below:

FHTA Situational Update No. 18

Glen Vavaitamana Active Members Area, Board Members
SENT TO MEMBERS ON TUESDAY 7 APRIL 7.51PM
Members are requested to be aware of the following information:

1. TC Harold Tracking South Eastwards, Closer to the Fiji Group

In the past 6 hours it has become apparent that there have been further adjustments to the forecast track of TC Harold. The most recent forecast has pushed the track further northward bringing the centre closer to Viti Levu and nearer to the larger population centres in the west and south of Fiji as it makes its closest approach to Fiji during the day tomorrow (Wednesday).
The latest special weather bulletin has now pushed Kadavu and Ono i Lau into the expected zone of very destructive hurricane force winds. Damaging gale and storm force winds are expected over all of Viti Levu, the Mamanuca and Yasawa groups, Lomaiviti, central and southern Lau, and nearby smaller islands.
It must be stressed that the current forecasts continue to indicate that the cyclone will not make landfall over any of the islands of Fiji, but this may change yet and you should stay alert to the risk of landfall increasing if further changes to the track of the cyclone are observed. At this time the timing of the closest approach to Fiji is expected to be around 3pm tomorrow when the cyclone will be about 180 km south of Nadi and 70km west of Kadavu.
At that time TC Harold is forecast to be a strong category 4 tropical cyclone with winds gusting to 220 kph or about 120 knots. Wind intensities for specific locations are contained within the warning. You should refer to that for the specific of your location.
Rainfall will increase tonight and will be heavy for long periods over the next 24 to 36 hours. Widespread flooding is expected, especially over the larger islands. Fortunately the timing of the closest approach will occur just after low tide, helping to minimize the sea flooding due to storm surges, however high tide tomorrow morning around 7 to 8 am may see some significant river flooding about the Nadi River especially.
Remember to make sure that if you are seeking shelter or undertaking preparations you are expected to maintain the COVID-19 isolation and hygiene standards to the best that you can, and follow all instructions from relevant authorities. DO NOT SWIM IN FLOOD WATERS! (Na Draki Weather)
For more details and the latest on weather, please contact the National Weather Forecasting Centre on 6736006, 9905376 or visit the Fiji Meteorological Service’s website, www.met.gov.fj.
For a full list of evacuation centres in the Eastern & Western Division, click HERE.
To read the full weather advisory, click HERE
2. New Case of COVID-19
Government announced today of one new confirmed case of COVID-19, which brings Fiji’s total to 15.
3. Cessation of Lautoka Lockdown
At 0500hrs this morning, the cordon around the greater Lautoka area has been lifted. The neighbourhood of Kashmir, which was earmarked to remain on lockdown, has been given the all-clear after the negative COVID-19 test of the suspected case from yesterday. Only Suva City and Soasoa, Labasa are under lockdown.
4. Aircraft Movements
Fiji Airways will undertake several freight, charter and passenger evacuation flights today. Evacuation flights will be operated to Sydney and Los Angeles. A charter service will also operate to Brisbane, while a freighter service on a Fiji Airways A330-200 will operate to Auckland.
The airline also positioned its other A330 aircraft in Brisbane and Sydney due to the appro ach of Tropical Cyclone Harold. Aircraft will return to Fiji once the cyclone threat has passed. Two Fiji Airways’ B737 aircraft, along with the entire Fiji Link fleet, are securely stored at the airline’s Hangar facilities in Nadi.
5. Donations to Community Isolation Facilities
FHTA and Ministry of Health & Medical Services wishes to sincerely thank the following properties for donating items to assist in the setting up of community isolation facilities around the country: Nila Beach Resort; Radisson Blu Hotels & Resorts; Laucala Private Island; Intercontinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa; and Holiday Inn Suva.
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The FHTA Secretariat is now working remotely due to the Suva City lockdown, BUT we will be on email info@fhta.com.fj or the contact details below:

FHTA Situational Update No. 17

Glen Vavaitamana Active Members Area, Board Members
SENT TO MEMBERS ON MONDAY 6 APRIL 7.57PM
Members are requested to be aware of the following information:

1. Be Prepared for TC Harold

Severe tropical cyclone Harold currently affecting Vanuatu. Thereafter, it is expected to move south-eastwards and pass “just” to the west of Fiji by mid-week.
Take the necessary steps to ensure that homes and properties are well secured. Ensure that your compounds are cleared of all debris that could harm individuals and damage properties in the event of strong winds. For those who live along low-lying flood prone areas, please be aware of your escape routes in the event of rising flood waters.
For more details and the latest on weather, please contact the National Weather Forecasting Centre on 6736006, 9905376 or visit the Fiji Meteorological Service’s website, www.met.gov.fj.
To read the full weather advisory, click HERE
1. Marine Notice 8/2020
All Ship Masters, Ship Owners & Ship Agents for foreign & local ships, Pilots, Port Management Companies/Operators, Marinas and Yacht Clubs are advised of the approaching Tropical Cyclone Harold.
All stakeholders are required to take necessary precautionary measures to keep your ships/boats safe. Any action taken must not pose undue risk to other ships within the sheltering area.
All Masters are advised to take early action and preventative measures based on good professional decision making combined with observance of good seamanship practice to ensure the ship under their command is made safe.
Masters must listen to all marine weather bulletins and updates issued from the Fiji Meteorological Office (www .met.gov.fj) and transmitted through Suva Coast Radio Station (3DP) and the local radio stations.
2. New COVID-19 cases and cessation of Lautoka lockdown
Government has announced that there are two new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the country, bringing our total to 14.
There is also a suspected case within the confined area of Lautoka. Due to the nature of this suspected case there will be a continued lockdown of only a particular neighbourhood in Lautoka while the cordon over the broader Lautoka area will be lifted at 0500hrs tomorrow, after 18 days in isolation.
More information on the smaller isolated area of Lautoka will be released tomorrow.
3. Requested Bank Statements for FNPF Assistance
FNPF has advised that if you or your staff do not have access to your bank for bank statements, you can just provide your bank details in your application form for COVID-19 Assistance from the FNPF.
4. Extensions to Work Permits
As per FHTA Situational Update No 9 (sent 31.03.20), Government announced the automatic three-month extension of all work permits in Fiji.
The Department of Immigration has advised that while all work permits will be extended, you are still expected to apply for an extension through the process of normal applications process.
If your work permit requires this extension – FHTA will provide you an endorsement letter and you may then forward this with your relevant documents and application to deepak.karan@immi.gov.fj  AND yogendra.kumar@immi.gov.fj 

Members are advised to check with and advise FHTA if you do not get a response from the Department of Immigration in a timely manner.

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The FHTA Secretariat is now working remotely due to the Suva City lockdown, BUT we will be on email info@fhta.com.fj or the contact details below:

FHTA Situational Update No. 16

Glen Vavaitamana Active Members Area, Board Members
SENT TO MEMBERS ON MONDAY 6 APRIL 1.07PM
Members are requested to be aware of the following information:

1. TC Harold is now Category 5

Severe Tropical Cyclone Harold has now intensified into a Category 5 system. Cat-5 Cyclones have average winds greater than 107 knots (198km/hr) with a central pressure less than 910 hPa.
While it is more likely than not that the centre of the cyclone will not make landfall over Fiji, the western and southern parts of Viti Levu, the Mamanucas and Yasawas, and offshore islands of Vatulele, Kadavu, Yanuca, Beqa and also southern Lau may experience gales and periods of heavy rain from Wednesday morning.
You should be prepared for a significant tropical cyclone event over Fiji this coming week.
2.  Businesses allowed to operate within lockdown areas
Secondary support services, listed below, will be allowed to operate from today Monday 6th April 2020.
As per Government’s announcement, members be advised that:
  1. The following sectors (non-essential secondary support services) will be allowed to operate and function from Monday 6th April 2020 notwithstanding any significant medical changes that may take place.
  2. These are applicable to Suva and Lautoka locked down areas.
  3. Employees must come from within the confined locked down areas
The businesses are to adhere to the required health practices and maintain social/physical distancing practices (at least 2 metres apart). The businesses are to ensure that staff are regularly washing hands with soap and water or using hand sanitizers. Businesses have also committed to take necessary proactive measures in terms disinfecting the workplace and if anyone becomes unwell at the workplace, to visit fever clinics.
2. a. Industries to be considered for operations in the lockdown areas – this is subject to any changes to the COVID-19 situation in Fiji:
 
Industries
Support Industries to the Food Manufacturing Sector
These are industries that supply packaging material, labels and pellet wrappings.
Textile, Clothing and Footwear
To complete current orders and position for new orders.
Container, Cartage, Supply and Logistics
Support services for fuel industries
For support services and laying of pipelines.
IT suppliers – support and equipment
Supporting connectivity for essential industries.
Gas Suppliers to other industries
Only for supplies to Supermarkets, factories and apartments.
Locksmith, Plumbing Services, Electrical Services, Air-conditioning Services
Only for on-call services and not opening of retail outlets.
Beverages
For export and domestic supply
Manufacturing
Such as, cigarettes, building materials and furniture
Construction Industry
Professional Services related to the Construction Industry
Engineers, Architects, Surveyors
Insurance Service Providers
Fiji Public Trustee Corporation (Pte) Limited
Fertiliser and Feed manufacturers
Poultry industry
Hardware Suppliers
Tyre and Vehicle spare parts Suppliers
Hotels
Provided strict quarantine rules are adhered to.
Funeral Services, Hearse, crematorium services
Protocols for normal shift who will be allowed to open from today:
All businesses will need to ensure that all staff who are required to work carries an authorization letter from the employer and have an ID card.
The staff will need to have:
  • Company Photo ID cards, in the absence of company ID, the staff will need to carry a valid National photo ID, such as Voter ID, Joint ID or Driver’s License;
  • Letter on company letterhead issued to staff that they are required to work
  • National Contact Centre telephone contact (where applicable) to verify the claims of the staff. Where there is no contact centre, a contact officer should be identified and contact details provided.
  • In the event that the Police stops a vehicle or your employee, the authorization letter will be presented.
a. Social distancing to be strictly followed
  • The Government continues to stress the importance of social distancing and work sites is no exception.  For non-essential businesses, the social distance must be strictly followed.  ONLY 20 employees must be in section area at any one time and within a distance of at least 2 meters.
b. Ensure that a clean environment is maintained, and to do sanitization throughout operations.
Protocols for businesses during nation-wide curfew hours
  • The same protocols must be followed, all businesses will need to ensure all staff who are required to work during curfew hours carry the following:
  • Company Photo ID cards, in the absence of company ID, the staff will need to carry a valid National photo ID, such as Voter ID, Joint ID or Driver’s License;
  • Letter on company letterhead issued to staff that they are required to work during that specific time; and
  • National Contact Centre telephone contact (where applicable) to verify the claims of the staff. Where there is no contact centre, a contact officer should be identified and contact details provided.
  • The letter is to be forwarded to Payal Chand, Senior Economic Planning Officer, payle.chand@govnet.gov.fj or phone: 9200 779

2.b. Request for movement across the border to the outside areas of the lockdown area.

All truck crossing the borders will need to adhere to the prescribed sanitization requirements. These include, the driver of the vehicle to be swapped at the border, after they have completed the proper sanitization process. The vehicle needs to be thoroughly sanitized.
In the event of a specialized vehicle, such as, fuel tankers, garbage disposal and construction vehicle, to name a few, that can only be driven by a qualified driver. The driver of the vehicle should not get off the cab, the vehicle will need to be sanitized at the border. The driver will drive the vehicle directly to the site and offloading will be conducted without the driver getting of the vehicle.
Industries
Food Manufacturers waste dumping
Trucks permitted to cross lockdown border to dump waste at the main dump sites in the Central and Western Divisions
Warehouse and Manufacturers
Trucks permitted to cross border to access warehouse and manufacturing outside of lockdown area.   In order for them to access essential products, such as baby food, infant formula, disinfectant, toilet tissues, hand sanitiser, tinned fish, noodles, to name a few.
Packaging Providers
Trucks permitted to cross border at supply packaging material to food manufacturing industry.
Poultry industries
Trucks permitted to cross border to access farms and also to supply to areas outside lockdown area.
Container and Logistics Movement
Trucks permitted to cross border to take containers to be transferred from port to areas outside of lockdown area
Transportation of Containers to Jetty
Trucks permitted to cross border to go to port outside of lockdown area to supply essential and food items to Vanua Levu and outer islands
These measures are in place to enable businesses to continue without any disruptions.
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The FHTA Secretariat is now working remotely due to the Suva City lockdown, so we will only be available on email info@fhta.com.fj or the contact details below:

FHTA Situational Update No. 15

Glen Vavaitamana Active Members Area, Board Members
SENT TO MEMBERS ON SUNDAY 5 APRIL 4.20PM
embers are requested to be aware of the following information:

1. Tropical Cyclone Poses a Threat to Fiji

Category 4 Tropical Cyclone is expected to pass over Northern and Central Vanuatu today. During the coming week there will be increasing threats to Fiji and also southern Tonga.
At this time it is expected that Fiji will start to see initial impacts from tomorrow night as rain increases over the western, central and northern divisions initially, then the eastern division from Tuesday morning.
Damaging gale force winds gusting to 85 kph are expected over Viti Levu from Wednesday morning, while the southern Mamanucas, southwestern Viti Levu, Vatulele and Kadavu may experience destructive storm force winds later Wednesday.
You should continue to listen closely to directives from relevant authorities as regards the likely impacts of TC Harold and how these may affect procedures and regulations in place for COVID-19.
Ensure you have basic items such as water, tinned or non perishable food, and access to a radio.
 
2.  New cases of COVID-19 and ban on social gatherings
Government has yesterday confirmed five new cases of COVID-19, bringing the country’s total to 12 confirmed cases. A nationwide curfew remains in force from 8pm to 5am daily and everyone is strongly advised to comply with this national directive.
There is also a ban on all social gatherings.  FHTA advises members to stay indoors and to not entertain visitors over to their homes.
Be reminded that there is a minimum 14 day lockdown on greater Suva area. This means there will be no entry and exit at Sawani Junction, Delainavesi and Nausori Bridge.
At the earliest, the Suva Lockdown is estimated to end on Friday 17 April and the Lautoka Lockdown is scheduled to end on Tuesday 7 April.
3. Freight Services to the Outer Islands
For those interested in organising a freight service to get food and fuel supplies to the islands – Kaiviti Shipping have a customized barge  with up to 120 tonne loading capacity with shallow 1.8m draft that is operated out of Denarau & Fantasy Marinas. You can contact Matthew Alford on Ph: 727 8425 or email matt@kvshipping.com
Other freight operators who have similar services that can operate during the current limited services available, can also inform FHTA of  your operational availability so this information can be shared to our members.
4. Mandatory Quarantine Measure
All passengers on flights arriving from any overseas port will be subject to a mandatory quarantine period of 14 days.
5. USA Repatriation
Fiji Airways operated a private charter flight for a group to Salt Lake City, departing Nadi last night. The aircraft will return via Los Angeles with freight only.
Fiji Airways continues to work through the logistics and approvals required for evacuation flights to/from the United States as well as other countries to allow citizens to return home.
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The FHTA Secretariat is now working remotely due to the Suva City lockdown, so we will only be available on email info@fhta.com.fj or the contact details below:

FHTA Situational Update No. 14

Glen Vavaitamana Active Members Area, Board Members
SENT TO MEMBERS ON FRIDAY 3 APRIL 3.34PM
EMPLOYER ADVICE FOR FNPF’S COVID-19 UNEMPLOYMENT ASSISTANCE
Employers are requested to provide the following information to FNPF’s email address: empcovid19@fnpf.com.fj
  • Registered Business/Employer name
  • Trading name (if different from registered business name)
  • Employer (FNPF) Reference number
This will allow FNPF to confirm:
  • That you have been making FNPF payments
  • your records for the last 3 months
  • your number of employees
  • your last salary paid
  • and employees no longer on your payroll
FHTA is also providing our membership list with verified contact details to FNPF to assist in the identification of your business as a bonafide tourism operator, in the hope that this will hasten the process for you and your staff.
 
Your staff are entitled to COVID-19 unemployment assistance which includes employees under reduced working hours; been sent on leave without pay; reduced wage rate; or permanently laid off.
 
You must assist employees with completing the forms and gather the following requirements:
  • one of the approved photo ID (TIN Card, Voter registration Card, Passport Page with photo ID and Drivers License);
  • valid bank statement;
  • registered SIM under employee if opting for M-PAISA payment option.
If employees are unable to collect the forms from you in person you can either disseminate the relevant forms by email or they can access the forms in the following ways:
  • in person collection from a Post Office or District Officer
  • download the form from the FNPF website
When your staff have filled in the forms and provided the requirements, they must be able to send it to you via:
  • Scanning the documents and emailing to you; or
  • Taking a photo of the documents and sending the images to you via Viber, Facebook Messenger or Whatsapp; or
  • Dropping the documents in person with you
For more details on how to fill forms (Employers & Employees) – click HERE
You are then to upload the completed documents through the employer portal HERE
Suva members, please note the same arrangement implemented for the Lautoka COVID-19 lockdown zone now applied to FNPF working members in the Suva-Nausori corridor. The Fund will publicise the list of companies for these newly identified areas from early next week.
And forms will be uploaded on the Fund’s website www.myfnpf.com.fj  and also made available at the Fiji Post Office and district offices.
For members who are presently unemployed, they can apply through the Fund’s normal Unemployment Assistance, which will require them to submit their application within six months from being terminated or laid off.
FHTA recommends that Employers do all possible to assist employees – both current and past – to access their FNPF and assist them with their eligibility. These guidelines are provided to assist Employers  to do this.  FNPF have noted their preference to conduct all assessments electronically through the portals they have made available now. If this is not possible for any reason, then please call or visit your nearest FNPF Office.
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The FHTA Secretariat is now working remotely due to the Suva City lockdown, so we will only be available on email info@fhta.com.fj or the contact details below:

FHTA Situational Update No. 13

Glen Vavaitamana Active Members Area, Board Members
SENT TO MEMBERS ON FRIDAY 3 APRIL 3.05PM
Members are requested to be aware of the following information:

1.  New cases of COVID-19 and Suva lockdown

Government has now confirmed Fiji’s 6th and 7th case of COVID-19 who are residents of Suva.
Due to this, there has been an implementation of a 14 day lockdown on greater Suva area. This means there will be no entry and exit at the following checkpoints, starting from this morning:
  • the Delanavesi Bridge on the Queen’s Road,
  • the Sawani Junction, and
  • the Nausori Bridge.
Within the greater Suva confined area:
  • The greater public will not be allowed in or out — only those traveling for medical purposes will be allowed through checkpoints.
  • All non-essential businesses will be closed.
  • Banks, pharmacies, restaurants, supermarkets, shop and FNPF  will remain open as well as hotels that still have guests in-house (guests should be advised not to leave the hotel unless absolutely necessary).
Like in Lautoka, essential business will remain open and this includes;
  • air and rescue services,
  • air traffic control services,
  • civil aviation,
  • telecommunication services,
  • food and sanitary manufacturing plants,
  • electricity services,
  • emergency services,
  • fire services,
  • health and hospital services,
  • lighthouse services,
  • meteorological services,
  • mine pumping,
  • ventilation and winding,
  • sanitary services,
  • supply and distribution of fuel and gas,
  • power,
  • telecommunications,
  • garbage collection,
  • transport services,
  • water and sewage services,
  • FNPF and FRCS,
  • civil service,
  • private security services and
  • roading services.
If your business is not on this list, you are not permitted to open.
For fresh fruits and vegetables, markets will be open but will be decentralized into satellite markets to prevent overcrowding.
The port of Suva will remain open for international freight shipping and inter-island cargo shipping; any passenger travel, however, remains forbidden; and
From tonight, the nationwide curfew will start at 8pm and end at 5am.
From today, ALL social gatherings are prohibited.
2. What this means for Suva accommodation (hotels, motels)  providers?
You are permitted to operate as normal. However, your guests must be advised to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary movement in public. Like the rest of Suva, they are allowed to go to the supermarkets or market to buy food and essentials but they must return to the hotel straight after.
3. New Lautoka lockdown information
For Lautoka confined area, the lockdown ends at 5am on Tuesday, the 7th of April, however restaurants are permitted to operate and entry into Lautoka is open for those who seek emergency medical care of kidney dialysis.
4. Fiji Link flights between Nadi-Suva suspended
Fiji Link, Fiji Airways’ domestic subsidiary, has today suspended all flights between Nadi and Suva, due to the Suva lockdown of the Capital announced by the Fijian Government.
As with other flight suspensions, impacted customers can be assured that their bookings are safe.
Additionally, Fiji Airways Sales Offices in Suva and Nadi Airport have closed in light of the present situation.
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The FHTA Secretariat is now working remotely due to the Suva City lockdown, so we will only be available on email info@fhta.com.fj or the contact details below: