Fiji awards 5G spectrum licenses to major telecom operators

15 September 2025

Fiji’s Ministry of Trade, Co-operatives, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, and Communications has officially issued 5G spectrum licenses to the country’s three leading mobile operators: Vodafone Fiji, Digicel Fiji, and Telecom Fiji. The licenses will come into effect on 15 September 2025, with the full 5G rollout expected to unfold gradually over three phases between 2025 and 2028.

The first phase, set for 2025, will focus on four key urban centres — including the capital, Suva — known for their dense populations, business activity, and tourism, as well as existing infrastructure like fibre and reliable power. Expansion into additional areas will occur during the second phase in 2026, followed by further extension in 2027 and beyond.

Vodafone Fiji, which currently serves over 850,000 subscribers and holds approximately 85% of Fiji’s telecommunications market, is preparing for its initial phase, having already completed extensive testing. Meanwhile, Digicel Fiji, part of the global Digicel Group operating in 31 markets across the Caribbean, Central America, and Asia Pacific, has not disclosed subscriber figures but has expressed strong commitment to the 5G initiative. According to the Fiji Times, Digicel Fiji’s CEO Farid Mohammed stated that the company’s significant investment in 5G aligns with the government’s vision for a connected digital future.

In addition to urban deployment, the Fijian government is working on upgrading rural and maritime networks to 4G, aiming to improve connectivity across the country. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Communications Hon. Manoa Kamikamica emphasised that the rollout is being carried out strategically and responsibly to foster inclusive national development. He also highlighted Fiji’s ambition to position itself as a regional leader in digital transformation through these efforts.