The purpose of the forum is to establish a wide consultative mechanism for all stake holders and other interested group to participate in the development of effective government policies for the transport sector. The forum serves as a contribution to the recognition of the coordinating and monitoring role of the TPU and likewise establishing understanding and cooperative arrangement amongst stakeholders. The National Transport Consultative Forum (NTCF) was formerly established as the key external reference group of TPU's stakeholders. The Forum was first inaugurated in November 2000. An important aspect of the Forum is the emphasis on the indispensable need for proper planning, development, organizations and maintenance of different transport modes (namely sea, air and land) which by right are a prerequisite for Fiji's economic and social development.