Fiji’s national HIV emergency threatens not only public health, but also workforce productivity, household incomes, business operations and the country’s long-term economic growth, according to Fiji National University’s (FNU) College of Business, Hospitality and Tourism Studies (CBHTS) Head of Department of Economic Development and Sustainable Studies, Mr Ashwin Deo.
Following the Government’s declaration of a national HIV emergency on 15 September 2026, Mr Deo said the sharp rise in infections, presents a significant economic challenge that requires urgent action, sustained investment and a coordinated national response.
Fiji recorded more than 2,016 new HIV cases in 2025, a 27 per cent increase from 1,583 cases in 2024. An estimated one in every 60 adults is now living with HIV, compared with one in 167 five years ago.
Mr Deo warned that if left unchecked, the epidemic could have far-reaching consequences for Fiji’s economy, placing increasing pressure on businesses, households and public finances.
“HIV is no longer just a health issue, it is an economic issue that could affect Fiji’s productivity, household incomes, business performance, and future development if we fail to act decisively,” said Mr Deo.
He explained that prolonged illness could result in increased absenteeism, reduced workforce productivity and loss of income for individuals and families.At the national level, rising infections are expected to increase Government expenditure on testing, treatment, medicines, and prevention programmes, placing additional pressure on an already resource-constrained health system.
“Every dollar spent responding to the consequences of HIV is a reminder of the importance of investing in prevention and early intervention. We must protect both the health of our people and the economic capacity of our nation,” he added.
Mr Deo noted that the HIV epidemic presents an additional challenge as Fiji continues to recover from the economic impacts of COVID-19, natural disasters and rising fuel costs.
Tourism, a major contributor to Fiji’s economy, is another sector where careful communication will be essential. Fiji welcomed more than 980,000 visitors in 2025, generating approximately $2.8 billion in tourism earnings.
Mr Deo stressed that public communication surrounding the HIV emergency must remain evidence-based and avoid creating unnecessary fear or stigma that could undermine Fiji’s reputation as a safe visitor destination.
“We must respond to the HIV emergency with urgency, but also with facts. HIV is not transmitted through ordinary tourist activities or casual contact. Misinformation and stigma can cause further harm, so our response must protect public health while maintaining confidence in Fiji’s economy,” he expressed.
Mr Deo also called for workplaces, educational institutions, families, community organisations and healthcare providers to work together to promote awareness, encourage testing and eliminate discrimination.
“The responsibility for curbing HIV cannot rest with Government alone. Government must lead, but employers, schools, families, communities and individuals all have a role in preventing new infections and ensuring people living with HIV receive the support they need,” he explained.
He further highlighted the importance of sustained investment in prevention and treatment, noting that effective early intervention could significantly reduce the longer-term financial burden on Government and families.
“Fiji cannot afford to treat this emergency as a challenge for the health sector alone. Investing in prevention, treatment and community cooperation is an investment in our workforce, our businesses and our future economic resilience,” he emphasised.
Mr Deo said a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach would be essential to reducing new infections, protecting livelihoods and preventing the epidemic from becoming a deeper economic and social setback for Fiji.
ENDS