2009 Fiji National Budget Incentive : Tax Free Regions

The Interim Government in Fiji has announced, in its 2009 National Budget, the set up of Tax Free Regions in the Northern Division and some of the outer islands to encourage encourage investment, support development and create employment opportunities in those areas.

The regions include Fiji's second largest island, Vanua Levu, and other islands including Rotuma, Kadavu, Taveuni, Levuka, Lomaiviti, Kioa, Rabi and Lau. These islands will be known as Tax Free Regions with effective from 1 January, 2009.

Incentives provided in these regions will include:

• 13 years tax holiday for new companies; and
• Import duty exemption on raw materials, machinery and equipment for initial setup.
• In addition, companies that start new projects with at least 25 per cent equity participation involving indigenous Fijians will be granted an additional 5 years tax holiday, that is, a total tax free status of 18 years.

The incentives are to be provided to new companies investing at least F$2 million.

Individuals and groups that need investment advice can use our company, Gilbert & Samuels Company Limited. We also do strategic planning and business continuity planning consultancy. Our contacts are: telephone (679) 3342719 or e-mail: info@gilbert.com.fj.