The Reserve Bank of Fiji (RBF) has announced the launch of a new series of polymer banknotes that reflect national identity and enhance protection against counterfeiting. The series was presented to the President of Fiji, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, on December 2, 2025, in Suva. This move is part of the RBF's planned review of banknotes, which it conducts every 10–12 years.

Presentation of the series

In Press Release No. 22/2025 dated November 11, 2025, the RBF announced the launch of the new series. The official presentation took place on December 2, 2025, with President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere as the chief guest. The ceremony was attended by Chief Justice Salesi Temo, Speaker of Parliament Filimoni Jitok, and Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka. The President emphasized that the banknote design reflects the cultural heritage and natural beauty of Fiji. A live stream of the event was broadcast on the RBF's Facebook page, starting at 00:25 CET, and lasted two hours.

Design and denominations

The new series includes banknotes with denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 Fijian Dollars. The reverse side design of the banknotes has been updated to better reflect national symbols: the 5 FJD features a turtle, the 10 FJD depicts people planting, the 20 FJD shows a building, the 50 FJD features flowers, and the 100 FJD displays a figure in traditional attire. The previous series, introduced in 2012, was based on the theme of flora and fauna. The new banknotes are manufactured on a polymer substrate to increase durability.

Security features

The banknotes are equipped with modern anti-counterfeiting measures, including new elements that facilitate authenticity verification. Features to assist the visually impaired, such as tactile marks, have been added. These measures are aimed at countering the risks of counterfeiting. The security features are the same for all denominations.

Implementation plan

The new banknotes will enter circulation on January 2, 2026. Previous banknotes will remain legal tender. The RBF published a teaser video of the series on YouTube and LinkedIn to inform the public. Press Release No. 27/2025 dated December 2, 2025, confirms the launch details.

Economic context

The launch of the banknotes occurs against the backdrop of Fiji's stable economy. According to RBF data as of October 2025, the overnight policy rate is 0.25%, the GDP forecast for 2025 is 3.4%, inflation for November is minus 1.4%, and reserves are $3,899.1 million USD (preliminary data). These indicators point to low inflation and growth. Sources: official RBF website, bank press releases, and Fiji Times publication.

Vitalii Cherniuk (IBNS 13299-R)

CEO World Banknote Store