Dr. Radika Kumar has been appointed as the new Permanent Secretary for Commerce and Business Development in Fiji, marking a significant step in her career as she returns to serve her home country. The announcement, made by the Public Service Commission with the Prime Minister’s endorsement, highlights her extensive qualifications and experience in economic leadership.
Dr. Kumar is recognized as a highly qualified economist, boasting over 18 years of experience in policy development, economic analysis, and evidence-based decision-making. Her academic credentials are impressive, including a PhD in Economics, a Master of Economics, and degrees in accounting and financial management, all from the University of the South Pacific. Additionally, she holds an MBA, a Master’s degree in Big Data and Business Intelligence, and a Certificate in Artificial Intelligence from the University of Oxford.
Her career has spanned various prestigious roles, beginning with the Government of Fiji and later serving as Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations and the World Trade Organization in Geneva. Since 2019, she has held senior advisory positions with the Commonwealth Secretariat in London.
In her acceptance of the appointment, Dr. Kumar expressed deep honor and commitment to Fiji, stating her intention to focus on building a resilient and globally connected economy. She aims to create an environment where micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) can thrive, driving digital innovation that benefits all communities and enhances opportunities for growth.
Dr. Kumar is set to assume office on May 4, 2026, taking over from Shaheen Ali. Her leadership is expected to bring valuable insights and advancements in Fiji’s economic landscape, contributing to a promising future for the nation’s development.
Leave a comment