Fiji has declared HIV a national crisis after recording a sharp rise in new infections, prompting the government to step up prevention, testing and treatment efforts. Health Minister Atonio Lalabalavu announced the emergency as authorities reported 2,016 new HIV diagnoses in 2025. UNAIDS says Fiji is experiencing one of the fastest increases in new HIV infections globally.

Government estimates indicate that about one in every 60 adults in Fiji is now living with HIV, compared with roughly one in 167 five years ago. UNAIDS estimates that around 9,100 people were living with HIV in 2025, but only 39% knew their status and about 22% were receiving treatment.

Health authorities say sexual transmission accounts for more than half of cases where the mode of transmission is known, while injecting drug use accounts for more than 42%. The situation has also affected mothers and children. Fiji reported that 59 babies were born with HIV in 2025, with 18 dying before reaching their first birthday.

In response, the government plans to expand free and confidential HIV testing, preventive medicines such as PrEP, treatment and harm-reduction services. It is also preparing to introduce a needle-and-syringe programme and has formed a five-member Cabinet committee to help coordinate the national response.

UNAIDS has welcomed the measures, saying Fiji still has an opportunity to change the course of the epidemic through stronger cooperation between government, communities and international partners.