FHTA Calls For Liquor Law Reform

Suva, Fiji – 25 February 2026: The Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association is calling for urgent reform of Fiji’s liquor legislation, which has remained largely unchanged for decades and no longer reflects the realities of modern communities or a maturing tourism economy.

In its current form, the regulatory framework allows liquor outlets to operate in proximity to residential areas, selling alcohol with minimal visible oversight. 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.

At the same time, hotels, which remain among the most compliant and heavily regulated operators in the country, are subjected to an onerous and repetitive annual licence renewal process. Each year, properties must secure clearances from the Police, National Fire Authority, Occupational Health and Safety, and health authorities before reapplying for their liquor licence. These same documents are uploaded repeatedly through a digital portal that was introduced to streamline the process but has, in practice, added layers of duplication and delay. In addition, hotels pay significantly higher licence fees and adhere strictly to regulated trading hours.

This imbalance is neither equitable nor logical. Responsible operators who invest heavily in compliance, training and guest safety should not be penalised by outdated systems, while less regulated outlets operate with comparatively fewer checks.

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.