Economy – Fiji Consulate General & Trade Commission

FIJI’S FIRST PINEAPPLE TRIAL EXPORT TO NEW ZEALAND A SUCCESS

Fiji has recorded a significant milestone with the successful export of a three-tonne commercial trial shipment of Ripley Queen pineapples to New Zealand. Coordinated through the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways’ Agriculture Trade & Marketing Research Programme, the shipment showcased the quality and potential of locally grown pineapples in a new market.

Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Hon. Tomasi Tunabuna, acknowledged the combined efforts of farmers, exporters, partner agencies, and stakeholders who contributed to the trial export. He noted that the achievement reflects growing confidence in Fiji’s ability to supply premium produce and supports ongoing efforts to expand agricultural exports.

The Ripley Queen variety has already drawn positive interest in New Zealand for its sweetness, robust flavour, and strong shelf life. The Minister highlighted that the trial’s success aligns with broader goals to diversify Fiji’s agriculture sector, strengthen market access, and support income opportunities for rural communities.

The shipment also met all biosecurity and quality requirements set by New Zealand authorities, marking an important step toward future export growth. The Ministry will continue monitoring market performance and providing support to farmers and exporters as discussions progress on expanding supply to New Zealand and other markets.

Fiji Trade Information Portal lauch

𝐅𝐢𝐣𝐢 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐈𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐋𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐒𝐮𝐯𝐚

21 July 2025, SUVA – The Ministry of Trade, Co-operatives, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Communications officially launched the Fiji Trade Information Portal (TIP) today, a landmark national initiative designed to centralise all trade-related information to ensure greater transparency, accessibility, and predictability in trade.

The TIP was officially launched by the Permanent Secretary for Trade, Co-operatives, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Communications, Mr. Shaheen Ali.

The launch featured remarks by the Australian High Commissioner to Fiji, H.E. Peter Roberts, and the Chief Executive Officer of the Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation, Mr. Edward Bernard. The event brought together senior government officials, private sector representatives, and technical experts from the World Bank Group, development partners and diplomatic missions, supporting the implementation of the Portal.

In his address, Mr. Ali described the Trade Information Portal as “a powerful tool, an enabler of economic participation and a step towards modernising the way we do trade in Fiji.” He explained that the Portal is a one-stop online platform that provides up-to-date, accurate, and easy-to-understand information on trade procedures, permits, licenses, fees, and regulations.

“Let’s be honest, trade procedures in Fiji have not always been simple,” Mr. Ali acknowledged. “For too long, our traders, especially MSMEs, have spent too much time chasing approvals and trying to understand complex rules. The TIP changes that, it puts clear, verified trade information at your fingertips, free of charge.”

The Australian High Commissioner to Fiji, H.E. Peter Roberts emphasised that the Trade Information Portal marks a significant step toward enhancing transparency. H.E Peter Roberts said “Australia has supported this initiative through the World Bank’s Trade Facilitation Support Programme, recognising its vital role in boosting Fiji’s integration into the global economy. We are proud to be part of this important step forward”.

Speaking at the event, The Australian High Commissioner to Fiji, H.E. Peter Roberts, reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to supporting Fiji’s trade and economic growth, while Mr. Bernard emphasised the importance of digital solutions like the TIP in easing the burden on local businesses.

The TIP is part of a broader trade facilitation agenda by the Fijian Government, which includes the planned implementation of a National Single Window System — a digital platform that will enable traders to complete all import/export transactions online through a unified interface.

“Today we celebrate TIP, but this is only the beginning,” said Mr. Ali. “This Portal sets the foundation for a fully integrated trade facilitation ecosystem that meets international best practices and supports our compliance with the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement.”

Mr. Ali also extended his appreciation to the World Bank Group, the Australian Government, and all government and private sector partners for their contribution to the success of the project.

The Fiji Trade Information Portal is now live and accessible at www.fijitradeportal.gov.fj

AFBC, Investment Fiji launch landmark Trade & Investment Review

In a major milestone for regional business collaboration, the Australia Fiji Business Council (AFBC) and Investment Fiji have jointly launched the Fiji Trade and Investment Review 2025-26: a flagship publication designed to showcase Fiji’s economic potential and guide international investors.

The inaugural edition was officially launched in Suva on 4 July by Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Co-operatives, SMEs and Communications, Hon. Manoa Kamikamica. The event brought together senior officials, business leaders, diplomats, and development partners, reflecting the high-level interest in Fiji’s evolving investment landscape.

“This publication is a strategic milestone,” Hon. Kamikamica said at the launch. “It signals our openness to the world and our commitment to creating a transparent, investor-friendly economy that supports inclusive growth.”

The publication was developed in response to strategic discussions held in 2024 between the Deputy Prime Minister and AFBC. It reflects a shared commitment to fostering deeper bilateral and regional economic ties, and forms part of the Council’s 40th anniversary year activities.

Compiled entirely in Fiji, with editorial support from Fijian media company Islands Business, the Review provides in-depth sectoral insights and practical investor guidance. It highlights growth opportunities across infrastructure, sustainable energy, digital transformation, tourism innovation, agribusiness, manufacturing, and export development. It also features investment case studies, regulatory overviews, and updates on government reforms aimed at improving the ease of doing business.

Investment Fiji CEO Kamal Chetty described the Review as “more than a magazine—it’s a forward-looking platform to connect Fiji with global capital and global ideas.”

AFBC President Zane Yoshida called the publication a model of public-private partnership. “This is the kind of collaboration that builds real business confidence and long-term partnerships. We’re proud to co-lead this initiative in our milestone year.”

Available in print and digital formats, the Fiji Trade and Investment Review will be updated annually and complemented by periodic online updates. It is expected to serve as a key resource for investors, trade delegates, and policymakers across the Pacific and beyond.

Copies are being circulated at trade forums, investment briefings, and through diplomatic missions. For more information and access to the digital edition, visit: fijitradeinvestment.com

Fiji Showcases Premium Natural Products at Naturally Good Expo 2025 in Sydney

Fiji proudly showcased a vibrant lineup of its premium natural and organic products at the Naturally Good Expo 2025, held from May 26 to 27 at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Sydney.

Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the Expo gathered industry leaders and sustainable brands from around the globe, providing an ideal platform for Fijian businesses to showcase their offerings to a highly targeted international audience.

Facilitated by the Fiji Consulate General and Trade Commission (Australia & New Zealand), Fiji’s participation reinforced its growing presence in the natural products sector, focusing on sustainable sourcing, cultural authenticity, and export competitiveness.

According to Mr. Daniel Stow, Fiji’s Trade Commissioner to Australia and New Zealand, “The Naturally Good Expo offers an invaluable opportunity for Fijian exporters to connect directly with international buyers and gain insights into the latest market trends. Our participation reflects Fiji’s commitment to supporting SMEs and increasing our global trade footprint in the health, wellness, and natural product industries.”

The Fijian delegation showcased a diverse array of innovative brands, including Kavalicious- FIJI, Terra Merita, FijiKava, Bula Premium Kava, Taveuni Kava & Dalo Dealers, CocoPine Juice, Fiji Fire (Hot Sauce) Aztec Farms Fiji, Fiji Sea Salt, Yalo Fiji’s Own, and Frezco Beverages Pte Ltd.

The Expo attracted industry professionals, including buyers, retailers, distributors, and decision-makers in the health, organic, and sustainable products sector. Fiji’s showcase generated significant interest, paving the way for new partnerships, market entry opportunities, and ongoing discussions with potential distributors across Australia and beyond. Fiji’s participation is part of a broader government-led strategy to promote Fijian-made goods and empower local exporters, particularly small and medium enterprises, to access new markets.

For more information on Fijian exporters and trade opportunities, visit www.fijitrade.org.

ONA Coffee to boost Fiji’s coffee industry

ONA Coffee(Fiji) Pte Ltd, an Australian-owned specialty coffee company, has established operations in Fiji, with a focus on developing the country’s emerging coffee industry.

ONA Coffee’s investment aims to capitalize the potential of wild coffee that grows naturally across Fiji, while delivering socio-economic benefits to local communities through direct farmer partnerships and sustainable practices.

The company is currently sourcing two of the four known coffee species in Fiji, Arabica and Liberica and working closely with 31 farmers in Rakiraki, who have wild coffee growing on their land.

In its initial phase, ONA Coffee is collaborating with these farmers to purchase coffee beans and this direct procurement model is complemented by their long-term vision to establish a nursery program and distribute one million seedlings a year to support the development over 500 acres of premium coffee plantation sacross the western region.

In partnership with the Ministry for Trade, Cooperatives, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs, the company is also identifying additional farms that show potential for coffee cultivation.

“The Fijian Government is excited to be part of the opportunity to scale the coffee industry in Fiji through cooperation with ONA Coffee,” said Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Honorable Manoa Kamikamica.

“Fiji needs more commercial ventures that link to small holder farms which in turn generate more economic activity in the rural economy.”

Investment Fiji Chief Executive Officer Kamal Chetty welcomed the investor’s entry into Fiji, stating that ONA Coffee’s initiative represents a transformative opportunity for the local agriculture sector.

“ONA Coffee’s entry into the Fijian market demonstrates how niche, high-value sectors such as coffee can contribute to our broader goals of sustainable development, rural empowerment, and agricultural diversification. Their approach of working directly with local farmers, investing in processing infrastructure, and hosting events like the Ra Province Specialty Coffee Tour will not only attract international attention but build real, long-term value for our people,” stated Chetty.

As part of its expansion plans, ONA Coffee has proposed the establishment of coffee processing facilities in Rakiraki, Taveuni, and Savusavu, and has identified an island in Volivoli Bay to serve as an operational base for certain aspects of the initiative.

To facilitate this, a working group has been established to oversee the project’s progress.

An incoming delegation including the ONA CEO Sasa Sestic, ONA Coffee Fiji CEO Maheer Prasad, Speciality Coffee Association CEO Yannis Apostolopoulos, My Liberica Owner Jason Liew, Maguta Estate Director David Maguta, Savage Coffees Owner Jamison Savage as well as Qawha Inc. CEO Hidenori Izaki will arrive into the country on Monday 19^th May.

The delegation will be part of various sitevisits in the Ra Province. ONA Coffee (Fiji) Pte Ltd will be officially launched on 23 May 2025 in Volivoli, Ra Province.

https://www.investmentfiji.org.fj/article/ona-coffee-to-boost-fijis-coffee-industry?fbclid=IwY2xjawKXpp9leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETF2YkxIMVNZODhaQmdLellqAR6bqILUSr5WcBAYdLd0ItUn1e9it_ZMt7wA3wv-29U7lMpd_-Rwgb0FBf-OkQ_aem_uwNDPb9Gl1zuSV_4WdSlbg

Anchor in exports – Trade commission in Australia deliver measurable results

FIJI’S Trade Commission in Australia that stands as Fiji’s anchor in exports has facilitated $33million in exports so far this year, an increase of $3m from the previous year, growing the country’s exports to 13 per cent in total.

The Sydney-based trade commission also helped facilitate the registration of more than 16 foreign direct investment (FDI) projects valued at $8m from Australia; investments spanning tourism, agro processing and ICT services.

For the year 2023-2024, the office had facilitated 34 FDI projects valued at $29m and $76m in exports.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade Manoa Kamikamica revealed these in his ministerial statement in parliament yesterday as he highlighted the role and impact of Fiji’s trade commissions in advancing trade investment and broader economic objectives.

He said Fiji had been making some remarkable progress in the Australian market, citing new market access and distribution secured for Fiji products such as Fire Fiji Bongo Chilli sauce, Juice Fiji, and fresh dalo from Road King Farms in Taveuni.

“Additionally, Fiji has proudly become a leading exporter of kava to Australia, with over 185 tonnes exported by nearly 200 Fijian kava exporters, since the launch of the commercial pilot program,” Mr Kamikamica said.

He said today, Fijian kava could be found in more than 800 cold stores across Australia.

“The trade commission is also exploring opportunities in higher value niche markets,” he said, citing coffee as an example, Australia’s largest import product agriculturally.

“A pilot project is underway with boutique Australian labels that has identified the unique flavour and quality of Fijian grown coffee.

“The commission facilitates targeted trade missions and events of course, and these events are targeted to create more opportunities for our people.”

Mr Kamikamica said more than 12 Fijian exporters would participate in the Naturally Good Expo in Sydney next month, which is Australia’s largest trade show for organic and natural products.

“To complement these events, the commission has launched an online product catalogue and directory making it easier for Australian and New Zealand businesses to discover and connect directly with Fijian producers.”

https://www.fijitimes.com.fj/anchor-in-exports-trade-commission-in-australia-deliver-measurable-results/

AFBC, Investment Fiji to launch definitive Trade & Investment guide for 2025

The Australia Fiji Business Council (AFBC) and Investment Fiji have announced the launch of the Fiji Trade & Investment Review 2025, a comprehensive annual publication that aims to equip businesses and investors with key insights into Fiji’s economic landscape.

Designed as a strategic resource for Australian, Fijian, and international businesses and investors, the publication covers sectoral opportunities, regulatory frameworks, and successful stories of Fiji businesses.

Since 1986, the AFBC has been critical in fostering bilateral trade and investment ties, working closely with its Fijian counterpart, the Fiji Australia Business Council. The publication’s editorial partner, Islands Business, brings decades of expertise as the premier business publication in Fiji and the Pacific Islands region.

Investment Fiji CEO Kamal Chetty hailed the initiative as crucial in bridging the gap between investment opportunities and action. “Investment Fiji is committed to providing investors with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed decisions. The Fiji Trade & Investment Review 2025 will be an essential tool in bridging the gap between opportunity and action, ensuring that businesses have access to relevant data, expert analysis and key regulatory information to help them navigate the investment process with confidence,” he said.

The Fiji Trade & Investment Review 2025 will provide in-depth intelligence on Fiji’s key industries, including infrastructure, tourism, manufacturing, agribusiness, digital technology, and renewable energy. It will also offer guidance on foreign investors’ compliance requirements and feature case studies of successful ventures.

Australia Fiji Business Council President Zane Yoshida underscored the importance of the publication in strengthening investment ties. “As a longstanding advocate for stronger business relations between Australia and Fiji, the Australia Fiji Business Council is proud to support this initiative. Our extensive experience and engagement with the business community and both Australian and Fiji Governments allow us to provide investors with a well-rounded perspective on Fiji’s evolving economic landscape. This publication will be an invaluable resource for businesses seeking to understand and capitalise on the opportunities Fiji has to offer.”

Last year, Yoshida discussed the publication idea with Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica, who is also Minister for Trade, at meetings in Sydney and Suva.

As Fiji’s economy continues its strong recovery, the publication aims to be an essential tool for businesses looking to enter or expand within one of the Pacific’s most promising markets. Written by experienced business journalists and researchers from Fiji and Australia, it will be produced entirely in Fiji and launched in mid-2025, available in print and digital formats.

You can access the digital copy of the Fiji Trade & Investment Review 2025-26 here: https://fijitradeinvestment.com/

Kava generates highest revenue of $21.8M in first half of 2024

Kava generated the highest revenue, amounting to $21.8 million in the first half of 2024.

The government says this represented a significant increase of 20.9 percent compared to the same period in 2023.

They say while the Annual Trade Data for 2024 is yet to be officially released by the Fiji Bureau of Statistics, the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways confirmed that fresh and chilled agriculture export data for the first half of 2024 revealed that kava generated the highest revenue.

They add in 2023, Fiji exported 501 metric tonnes of kava globally with an export value of $38.1 million.

https://www.fijivillage.com/news/Kava-generates-highest-revenue-of-218M-in-first-half-of-2024-r58fx4/

Australia, New Zealand, North America, And China Travelers Make 2024 Fiji’s Biggest Tourism Year Yet

Fiji set a new tourism record in 2024, welcoming over one million visitors, with strong growth from Australia, New Zealand, North America, and China.

Fiji has achieved a historic milestone in tourism, welcoming more than one million visitors in 2024—the highest annual total ever recorded in the country.

A total of 982,938 tourists arrived by air, while 81,854 travelers visited via cruise ships, surpassing the initial target of 966,930. Notably, the number of U.S. visitors reached 107,821, reflecting an 8% rise from 2023 and marking the first time Fiji has crossed the one-million-visitor threshold.

The tourism industry’s success in 2024 extended beyond visitor numbers, driving growth across various sectors:

Digital Expansion: Tourism Fiji saw a remarkable 313% surge in website traffic, surpassed one million social media followers, and generated over two million YouTube views within a month for its latest brand videos.
Major Events: High-profile international events like the return of the Corona Surf League (WSL) Fiji Pro, the Spartan Fiji Trifecta, and the country’s first-ever NRL match reinforced Fiji’s position as a premier sports tourism destination.
Global Recognition: Fiji earned a spot as the #3 must-visit destination for 2025 according to Lonely Planet and was named the #1 island in the South Pacific by Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards.

Fiji’s record-breaking year highlights its growing appeal as a global travel hotspot, with strong momentum heading into 2025.

https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/australia-new-zealand-north-america-and-china-travelers-make-2024-fijis-biggest-tourism-year-yet/

Australia reinforces Fiji partnership

Australia reaffirmed its strong commitment to its “Vuvale” partnership with Fiji, noting approximately $280 million in contributions over the past 18 months.

Speaking at Australia Day celebrations, High Commissioner Ewen McDonald emphasized the strong bonds and collaboration between the two nations, highlighting the partnership’s “extraordinary achievements.

“As Vuvale we are doing some extraordinary work together, growing trade and tourism, strengthening defense, police and border security cooperation and working together to build climate resilient and disability inclusive infrastructure to name just a few areas and let’s not forget the work we do collectively together regionally.”

McDonald also highlighted that Australia is giving an additional $14.5 million for infrastructure improvements at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital, stressing its importance to Fiji and the need for continued support.

https://www.fbcnews.com.fj/news/australia-reinforces-fiji-partnership/

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