FIJI’S economy soared past pre-pandemic levels in 2023, recording an impressive growth rate exceeding eight per cent, driven largely by a tourism revival that welcomed over one million international visitors last year.
As the government unveils a robust pipeline of more than $6 billion in investments, ranging from agriculture to digital trade, experts predict a shift towards a resilient and diversified economic landscape that benefits all Fijians.
The Fiji Government is promoting export sectors such as cattle, ginger, coconut, coffee, and cocoa, while revitalising manufacturing in food processing and furniture.
“SMEs, which represent over 80 per cent of Fiji’s businesses, receive targeted reforms to improve access to finance, training, and digital tools to formalise and grow,” said Minister for Agriculture of Fiji Tomasi Tunabuna in his opening address during the 29th Australia Business Forum.
“Cooperatives are being revived to connect rural communities to value chains, ensuring grassroots benefits from economic growth.
“Digital transformation efforts include expanding e-commerce, digital public services, and simplifying investment processes to create a seamless digital economy.”
Fiji has prioritised investment attraction through streamlined approvals, incentives, and digital platforms to support business growth and investor confidence.
He said the introduction of online company registration and a single digital point of entry for investors has significantly simplified processes.
“Tax holidays, duty concessions, and sector-specific incentives target renewable energy, ICT, tourism, and agro-processing industries.
“The Business Now Fiji platform integrates 25 services from 16 agencies, while the Fiji Trade Reform Portal and Investment Single Window unify trade and border procedures.
“Infrastructure upgrades in telecommunications, transport, energy, and water create an enabling environment critical for sustained investment,” he said.
According to Tunabuna, the partnership with Australia remains vital, with two-way trade exceeding $US4.3 billion in 2024 and Australian investment exceeding US$1 billion, fostering deep economic ties.
“Australian businesses are embedded across sectors such as tourism, professional services, manufacturing, energy, and infrastructure.
“Fiji is expanding exports of value-added products like angels and engaging in ICT and business process outsourcing to enhance bilateral trade depth.”
Tunabuna highlighted government co-creation opportunities beyond goods, focusing on commercial agriculture, health, renewable energy, and tech partnerships aligned with shared goals.
“Australian expertise and investment are expected to boost Fiji’s livestock breeding, medical tourism, and renewable energy targets, creating jobs and regional benefits.”
Fiji is also on the road to strengthening its digital infrastructure and cybersecurity to protect economic resilience amid growing cyber threats.
Investments also focus on cyber capacity building, digital literacy, and safeguarding critical infrastructure across government and industries.
Tunabuna said this approach reflected a strategic view that cybersecurity is essential not just technically but as a foundation for economic stability.
The digital transformation aligns with broader reforms aimed at easing business operations and connecting Fiji globally, as these measures prepare Fiji to partner confidently with global investors and to build trust in its digital economy.
Fiji is also aiming to be the Pacific’s trade and investment hub, leveraging its strategic location and infrastructure to connect island economies globally.
Active engagement in regional economic cooperation efforts is designed to enhance trade capacity, align standards, and improve competitiveness for small island states.
“Fiji’s ports, air links, financial services, and communications position it as a natural gateway between the Pacific and the world.”
While stressing the partnership with Australia and private sector actors to sustain momentum in trade, investment, and skills development.
He said the vision is a vibrant, inclusive, and globally competitive Fiji economy that shares prosperity regionally and widens opportunity for all.