Over the past 15 years, sustained efforts by the Reserve Bank of Fiji in collaboration with government, financial institutions and development partners have helped transform the way Fijians access and use financial services.

The results of the 2025 Financial Services Demand Side Survey (DSS) demonstrate just how far we have come. Formal financial inclusion now stands at 87 percent, up from 81 percent in 2020 and 64 percent in 2014. More Fijians than ever before are connected to formal financial services, particularly through digital channels that are extending reach into urban, rural and remote communities.

Yet the survey tells a story that goes beyond access. For the first time, it provides deeper insights into financial health and wellbeing, reminding us that while more people are financially connected, many continue to face challenges in building savings, managing shocks and achieving long-term financial security.

Mobile money driving the next wave of inclusion

Perhaps the most significant change since the last survey has been the rapid rise of mobile money.

Mobile money ownership grew from just 17 percent in 2020 to 67 percent in 2025, bringing it almost level with bank account ownership at 68 percent. For many Fijians, mobile money has become the gateway into formal finance, providing a convenient and secure way to send and receive money, make payments and manage daily financial transactions.

The growth has been particularly encouraging among women, whose mobile money ownership now slightly exceeds that of men. This demonstrates the potential for digital financial services to overcome some of the traditional barriers to financial inclusion.

At the same time, the survey highlights the need to ensure digital services remain reliable, accessible and easy to use. Connectivity issues, lack of digital skills and continued reliance on cash remain barriers for some segments of the population.

Inclusion rising, but unevenly

While overall formal financial inclusion is now equal among women and men, access and usage patterns differ significantly. Women are more likely to engage through mobile money, while men remain more likely to hold bank accounts.

The survey also shows that exclusion remains higher among rural communities, younger people and residents of the Northern Division. People living with disabilities report strong overall levels of financial inclusion, but lower levels of digital engagement.

These findings highlight an important lesson: achieving inclusion is not simply about making financial services available. Products and delivery channels must also be affordable, accessible and responsive to the needs of different groups within society.

Progress needed on credit, insurance and MSMEs

Formal credit and insurance uptake remain relatively low, despite growing awareness of available products.  This is particularly important given Fiji’s exposure to climate-related risks and the increasing importance of financial tools that can help households and businesses recover from unexpected events.

The findings relating to micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) are equally significant.  Around one in ten households owns an MSME, with many being women-owned. However, access to finance remains a challenge, often due to limited business records, collateral requirements and complex application processes.

Supporting these businesses through more tailored financial solutions will be critical to strengthening economic resilience and promoting inclusive growth.

The next challenge: building resilience

One of the most important findings from the 2025 DSS is that financial inclusion does not automatically translate into financial wellbeing. Many households continue to face financial pressure. One-third report that their income is insufficient to meet regular expenses, while many have limited savings and would struggle to maintain living costs if their main source of income was disrupted.

When faced with a financial emergency, many respondents continue to rely on family and friends for support. While this reflects the strength of Fiji’s social and community networks, it also highlights the importance of building household resilience through savings, insurance and appropriate financial tools.

Turning access into impact

The 2025 DSS shows that Fiji has made substantial progress in expanding financial inclusion. The challenge now is to build on this foundation by strengthening financial capability, digital confidence and consumer resilience.

As Fiji continues implementing the National Financial Inclusion Strategy 2022-2030, the focus must increasingly shift from access alone to meaningful and responsible usage. This means helping people save, prepare for emergencies, access appropriate credit and insurance products, and confidently use digital financial services.

Fiji has built a strong foundation. The next phase of the journey is about ensuring that every connection to the financial system delivers real value, stronger resilience and improved wellbeing. Ultimately, success will not be measured only by the number of accounts opened, but by whether Fijians are better equipped to manage risks, seize opportunities and build more secure futures.

Source: Fiji Financial Services Demand Side Survey 2025, published by the Reserve Bank of Fiji.