The three-day 2024 Fiji-Australia and Australia-Fiji Business Councils Joint Forum, regarded as a pivotal event for bilateral trade according to Australia-Fiji Business Council president Allison Haworth West, successfully wrapped up yesterday.
In her closing remarks, Ms. West reviewed the presentations from the final day and expressed gratitude to the organizers and attendees for contributing to the success of the forum. She encouraged those who have not yet joined the councils to do so and reminded members about next year’s event, which is set to take place in Australia.
“We all understand that personal connections are crucial to business, as shown by the interactions over the past few days,” Ms. West noted. “I want to congratulate everyone for excelling in networking. The communication and dialogue that occurred with governments and among participants has been exceptional.”
Ms. West pointed out recurring themes discussed during the forum, including migration, infrastructure, and education, while thanking the organizing committee for their excellent effort.
Fiji-Australia Business Council president Vera Chute also provided a summary of the event, which began with a dinner on Thursday. She emphasized the wealth of information shared and expressed hope that attendees gained valuable insights.
Ms. Chute highlighted remarks from the deputy Australian High Commissioner, Ms. Clair McNamara, who announced that Australia has signed new grant agreements worth FJ$157.3 million for Fiji to support its priorities across the five pillars of the Vuvale partnership. Additionally, she informed attendees of over FJ$232 million in loans and grants confirmed by the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific for investments in aviation, transport, maritime, energy, and climate change.
Investment Fiji chair Jenny Seeto mentioned that approximately FJ$500 million in investment would be required to boost Fiji’s growth to five percent. Australian Trade Commissioner for the Pacific, Tim Houghton, shared that the infrastructure opportunities available in Fiji are valued at approximately US$750 million (FJ$1654.95 million).
Chute also reminded delegates, echoed by Westpac Pacific managing director Emma Low, of the importance of investing in people. This message was further emphasized by Kelera Cavuilati from MDF, who shared case studies from her work with island communities, and Marc McElrath from McDonald’s Fiji, who discussed the significance of good governance.
The event saw participation from over 200 delegates over the three days.