Fiji is poised to broaden its trade engagement with North America through the forthcoming establishment of the Fiji Canada Business Council (FCBC). Investment Fiji’s CEO, Kamal Chetty, shared this update during the announcement of the council’s launch, highlighting the significant role played by the Fijian Association of Canada in this initiative.
Chetty expressed optimism about this collaboration, stating, “I think this is the first time we’ve done this, hopefully we can do more of this kind of collaboration in the future.” He emphasized that the council aims to facilitate business partnerships, promote trade, and encourage investment between Fiji and Canada, focusing particularly on emerging sectors such as renewable energy and sustainable tourism.
Sam Basra, president of the Fijian Association of Canada, acknowledged the challenges faced in persuading the government to tap into the North American market. He noted the difficulties in engaging with ministers outside of parliamentary sessions and expressed a collective commitment of the Fijian diaspora in Canada to contribute effectively to both their local community and back to Fiji. “It took me about three years to get all the members of the Fijian diaspora in Canada under one umbrella,” Basra said, “this means trying to identify opportunities in Canada for our local market.”
He also voiced hope for future collaboration, stating, “Now that we’ve achieved what we came here for, the door of Canada is open and you have opened the doors for Fiji to us.”
This initiative not only represents a significant step for Fiji in diversifying its international trade relationships but also highlights the potential for greater community engagement and economic collaboration between the two nations.
In summary, the formation of the FCBC marks a positive development in fostering trade ties and promoting investment opportunities, paving the way for a fruitful partnership that can benefit both Fiji and the Fijian communities in Canada. This collaboration could be a game-changer, especially in vital sectors like renewable energy and sustainable tourism, offering hope for economic growth and shared prosperity.
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