Fiji is poised for significant growth in investment projects slated to begin next year, but urgent action is needed to address skills shortages in the construction sector. Dr. Kishti Sen, ANZ’s senior economist for the Pacific, shared this insight during a media roundtable, emphasizing the role of private investment in bolstering Fiji’s GDP growth in 2025 and 2026.
Dr. Sen highlighted an expected surge in private investment, projecting an additional $600 million in spending for the upcoming year. However, he noted that labor constraints in various sectors, particularly construction, business services, and mining, present challenges that need to be overcome.
He expressed optimism that these sectors could experience a recovery as the overall economy gains strength. “New investment is crucial, even in light of existing labor shortages. Once a number of new projects kick off, these industries are likely to shift gears,” Dr. Sen explained.
He also suggested that Fiji may need to consider importing labor to fully unlock its investment potential and alleviate pressures on its current workforce. To facilitate this, he recommended that the Department of Immigration streamline its processes to expedite work permit applications.
Kamal Chetty, CEO of Investment Fiji, reported that there are currently 27 projects valued at $1 billion in the construction phase expected to begin operations in the next few years. Furthermore, another 20 projects worth a combined $1.6 billion are anticipated to enter construction within that timeframe, contingent on successful project progression and timely approvals.
According to data from the Fiji Bureau of Statistics, the estimated value of work completed last year amounted to $557.9 million, reflecting a $31.8 million increase (6 percent) from 2022, when it was $526.1 million.