The Reserve Bank of Fiji has issued its latest assessment of the economy. Following a coup initiated by George Speight in May, Fiji's economy has deteriorated sharply and further declines are in prospect, the central bank said. Most sectors of the economy have weakened significantly with the largest contraction of output in the garment, manufacturing, construction, retail and hotel industries. Inflation has started to rise, although from very low levels.

On a positive note, however, the central