Fiji’s Central Bank Issues Warning on Cryptocurrency Use
The Reserve Bank of Fiji (RBF) has cautioned against the use of cryptocurrency for transactions or investments, diverging from the perceived stance of Fiji's prime minister.
The warning extends to potential legal consequences for residents investing in cryptocurrency abroad using funds from Fiji.
The RBF’s advisory comes amid observed promotions of cryptocurrency investment schemes within Fiji, which the bank has not authorized.
Despite initial optimism for Bitcoin adoption following the election of Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, there has been no public endorsement of cryptocurrency by Rabuka.
Lord Fusitu’a, a Tongan parliament member, previously hinted at Rabuka’s interest in Bitcoin but noted the absence of public statements from Rabuka on the matter.
READ MORE: Bitcoin Faces Significant Selling Pressure Amid Geopolitical Tensions
While Lord Fusitu’a advocated for Bitcoin introduction in 2022, including converting Tonga’s national treasury to cryptocurrency, Fiji has yet to pursue such measures.
The RBF’s recent statement aligns with the International Monetary Fund’s cautionary stance on cryptocurrencies, emphasizing their inadequacy as payment methods and associated macroeconomic risks, as outlined in a February paper on digital money in Pacific Island countries.