The Fiji Chamber of Commerce and Industry says the government's intention to privatise water must be resisted at all costs.
The Daily Post quotes the Chamber president Taitao Waradi as saying pivatising water would impact negatively on the people of Fiji.
Mr Waradi says international experience has shown that privatizing water will not necessarily bring about its efficient management and delivery, nor will it bring the price to affordable levels.
He says unlike competition in other business sectors, once a water vending company is chosen, it becomes a monopoly supplier whose main objective is making a profit.
Mr Waradi says water is the responsibility of the government which should ensure that everyone has it for daily necessities.