Fifty small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Fiji will enhance their online presence through the MSME Tablet Assistance Scheme, which provides them with tablets. This initiative is part of a collaborative effort between Vodafone Fiji and the Reserve Bank of Fiji (RBF) that began in 2020, aimed at supporting digital growth in the sector.
The tablets are intended to equip these businesses with essential tools to improve their digital presence and promote their products on e-commerce platforms. This move opens new market opportunities and accelerates their digital transformation amid a shifting business landscape.
Rajnesh Prasad, Vodafone’s Regional Chief Marketing Officer, noted that about 120 SMEs have been benefiting from the platform, supported by RBF through subsidized fees over the past four years. The latest phase of this initiative specifically targets SMEs that do not yet have adequate resources to engage effectively in the digital marketplace.
Prasad explained that the assessment of these businesses revealed they often lacked the devices necessary for managing online accounts and uploading products, motivating the decision to provide tablets. The scheme also includes training for the participating SMEs, focusing on efficient business management and customer interaction through digital platforms.
Furthermore, RBF Governor Ariff Ali underscored the critical role of SMEs in driving economic growth and job creation. He pointed out that technology and digital tools are vital for accelerating growth for these enterprises. Ali emphasized that for developing countries like Fiji, embracing digital technology is essential to align with developed nations regarding innovation and market access.
This initiative not only empowers local businesses to thrive but also reflects a broader commitment to enhancing the digital capabilities of Fiji’s SMEs, ensuring they can compete on a global scale. The focus on providing necessary tools and training is a positive step towards fostering resilience, inclusivity, and innovation within the economy.
As Fiji embraces these digital advancements, there is optimism that these efforts will translate into sustainable economic growth and greater opportunities for its SMEs in the future.
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