Labour shortages have emerged as a significant challenge across all sectors in Fiji, particularly impacting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), according to Minister for Trade, Co-operatives, and MSMEs Manoa Kamikamica. Speaking at the Asian Productivity Organisation’s 65th workshop meeting of Heads of National Productivity Organisations in Nadi, he highlighted that while the government has made considerable progress in enhancing productivity through various policies and initiatives, the shortage of skilled workers due to migration is a major obstacle to achieving the country’s productivity objectives.
Kamikamica stated, “Labour shortage is a major challenge for all sectors in Fiji, including MSMEs that require the right skills and personnel to complete tasks effectively.” He pointed out that the country is losing individuals who could play vital roles in critical sectors such as tourism, healthcare, education, and technology.
To address this issue, the Minister indicated that the government is focusing on creating new industries and investing in key sectors to foster a favorable business environment in Fiji by modernizing outdated policies. He mentioned the establishment of the Investment Facilitation Committee, which aims to assist investors and streamline the investment process.
Kamikamica also emphasized the importance of diversifying the Fijian economy and developing new industries with an emphasis on value addition. He noted ongoing efforts through the Commercial Agriculture Taskforce, which is collaborating with various investors, including Fiji Water and Aitken Spence, to revitalize crops such as kava, cocoa, papaya, citrus, and cassava.