In a moving farewell hosted by the Fiji New Zealand Business Council, outgoing New Zealand High Commissioner to Fiji, Charlotte Darlow, shed light on the current state of the bilateral trade, which currently stands at $1.3 billion. This figure has decreased from last year, as the two nations initially aimed for a target of $2 billion by 2030.
Despite this setback, Darlow remains optimistic about the potential for trade growth, referring to the goal as “ambitious but achievable.” She noted, “We have a very strong basis to start from,” during an interview at the FNZBC Christmas cocktail event, which marked her final engagement with the council before her return to New Zealand early next year. Darlow highlighted that Fiji has become a more significant trading partner for New Zealand than even France, a fact that surprises many in New Zealand.
The High Commissioner identified several key areas driving this trade growth: a robust tourism sector, expanding infrastructure, and a vibrant business process outsourcing (BPO) sector, all fueled by a dynamic entrepreneurial spirit in Fiji. Darlow also pointed out that the innovations emerging from the region position Fiji well to seize future opportunities.
Darlow’s farewell comes alongside the strengthening of the Fiji-New Zealand relationship, symbolized by the Duavata partnership and ongoing dialogues regarding PACER Plus—a regional trade agreement driven by Australia and New Zealand along with several Pacific Island countries, although Fiji has yet to join this agreement. She referred to this partnership as “very special,” emphasizing the potential benefits for Fiji in terms of improved export access and enhanced regional collaboration.
Reflecting on her time in Fiji, Darlow expressed warmth towards the local communities, recalling the heartfelt connections she formed and the impact of various development projects. “Fiji is now part of my family’s imprint,” she remarked, taking her leave with gratitude for the lasting bonds created during her tenure.
As she departs, Ms. Darlow leaves a legacy marked by enhanced economic and social ties, paving the way for a promising future in Fiji–New Zealand relations. The hope is that with continued commitment, the trade goal can still be met, benefiting both nations.
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