Fiji is moving forward with a refreshed, long-term trade strategy that builds on its 2015 policy framework and aims to keep the country competitive in a shifting global market. The new National Trade Policy Framework for 2025–2036, led by Permanent Secretary for Trade Shaheen Ali, is designed to adapt to rapid changes in digital trade, diversify export markets, and keep Fiji’s people at the center of economic growth.
Key achievements and strategic positioning
– Fiji highlights a track record of leveraging international deals to expand its footprint in world markets. Notably, the country cites progress in fisheries subsidies commitments under the WTO, which have helped raise Fiji’s profile in global trade discussions. The Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF), which brings together 14 economies including the United States, Japan, and India, is another cornerstone. Ali notes that these Asian economies account for a large share of global GDP, and Fiji now participates more actively on issues such as supply chains, anti-corruption, labor, and environmental standards.
– The first trade policy framework laid groundwork for Fiji’s broader engagement, and the new framework seeks to deepen that engagement by placing digital trade and inclusive growth at the forefront. This includes better access for exporters through modernized trade rules, clearer pathways for investment, and stronger capacity to negotiate with big economies from a position of confidence.
Domestic reform and capacity building
– Domestically, Fiji is reforming its investment framework to be more investor-friendly, aiming to shift the emphasis from regulation toward active support for investors. Ali indicated that, while skills are in short supply, Fiji’s partnerships with Australia and New Zealand help retain expertise within the country’s trade ministry, ensuring continued leadership in Fiji’s trading interests.
– The new policy framework is designed to be inclusive, serving large corporations while also prioritizing SMEs, cooperatives, women, and youth entrepreneurs. It aligns with Fiji’s Vision 2050 and the 2025–2029 National Development Plan, reinforcing a national push to diversify the economy beyond traditional sectors and strengthen digital capabilities across the economy.
Global markets and diversification
– Fiji’s negotiations under the second framework are targeting a broader set of partners to reduce exposure to any single market. Key conversations are already underway with the United States, India, China, Australia, New Zealand, and ASEAN member countries, with the aim of expanding market access and strengthening trade resilience.
– In parallel, there is emphasis on expanding digital trade channels to help Fiji’s exporters reach new markets more efficiently. This digital emphasis is paired with practical steps like improved export readiness programs and better island-to-island capacity-building, which are essential for community-level participation in a more connected global economy.
Context and value for readers
– The framework fits into a broader regional and international context where small island economies are navigating shifting tariff regimes, new trade rules, and sustainability expectations. Fiji’s approach—combining high-value, technology-driven reforms with inclusive growth and regional cooperation—positions the country to leverage opportunities in digital commerce, services, and diversified export destinations.
– Readers can expect continued updates on how sector-specific reforms unfold, how tariffs and trade barriers evolve, and how Fiji’s partnerships with regional players and major markets translate into tangible benefits for exporters, workers, and communities across the islands.
What to watch next
– The rollout of sector-focused tariff reform and how it balances government revenue with growth and resilience.
– Progress on expanding digital trade capabilities for MSMEs and rural producers, including potential pilots and capacity-building programs across Vanua Levu and Viti Levu.
– Specific outcomes from negotiations with the US, India, China, Australia, New Zealand, and ASEAN, and how these deals affect key Fijian industries such as agriculture, fisheries, and processed products.
– Continued engagement with the EU under the Interim Economic Partnership Agreement and how Ireland-style market-access commitments influence export pathways to Europe.
Positive take and outlook
– Fiji’s renewed focus on inclusivity, digital commerce, and regional collaboration offers a hopeful path toward diversified, sustainable growth. By strengthening its regulatory framework, expanding market access, and investing in people and technology, Fiji aims to reduce vulnerability to external shocks and uplift communities across the archipelago.
Summary
– Fiji is advancing a robust, digitally oriented National Trade Policy Framework for 2025–2036, building on its 2015 framework. The plan emphasizes inclusive growth, diversified markets, and stronger digital trade, with ongoing negotiations with major economies to broaden opportunities for exporters and investors. The approach seeks to balance revenue considerations with growth, while bridging capacity gaps across Fiji’s islands to ensure broad-based benefits from new trade partnerships.
Editorial notes for value-added elements
– Consider a sidebar detailing which sectors are most likely to benefit from sector-specific tariff reform concepts.
– Include an island-by-island map showing capacity-building and export-readiness programs to visualize the bridging of Vanua Levu and Viti Levu.
– Add a quick explainer on digital trade channels for small exporters and how Fiji’s evolving regulatory environment supports them.
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