PRICE control does not assist in the building of strong economies but rather a hindrance to investment and job creation.
President of the Fiji Fuel Retailers Association, Baljeet Singh believes the forces of the marketplace, especially competition, were a much better way of encouraging growth and expansion.
"We agree with the Prime Minister that price control is archaic, uneconomic, anti-investment and anti-business," Mr Singh said at the association's annual general meeting at the Warwick Fiji Resort yesterday.
Rising cost of doing business as well as some regulatory obligations add to the difficulties fuel retailers face," Mr Singh said.
"Wages went up last year; electricity deposits have doubled and there is a new levy for the National Fire Authority.
"The list of licences and certificates our members must obtain to remain compliant with regulations now total at least 10," Mr Singh said.
"This does not fit with the national aim of freeing up the market to create a deregulated and modern economy.
"You have my assurance that we will pursue dialogue with those in authority to address these and other challenges.
"A brighter future awaits if Fiji as a nation adopts the policies that have helped other developing countries progress. We want to be part of that," Mr Singh said.