Trade relations between Fiji and New Zealand have seen remarkable growth, with total trade reaching NZD 1.38 billion (approximately FJD 1.89 billion) as of September 2023. The update was delivered by James Trusler, president of the Fiji-New Zealand Business Council (FNZBC), during the council’s 34th Annual General Meeting (AGM).
In the reporting period, New Zealand exported goods and services worth NZD 841.92 million to Fiji, while Fiji’s exports to New Zealand totaled NZD 533.39 million. This positive momentum includes a new goal set during last year’s Fiji-New Zealand Business Council conference in Nadi, which aims to elevate bilateral trade to NZD 2 billion. Following this initiative, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has supported the development of a strategic plan to assist in achieving this target, which has led to the formation of a subcommittee collaborating with the New Zealand Fiji Business Council (NZFBC).
Fiji’s exports to New Zealand hit an all-time high, surpassing NZD 502 million (FJD 689 million) during the March quarter of 2023. The substantial increase in trade figures reflects a growing synergy between the two countries, indicating that robust trade relationships can lead to enhanced economic collaboration.
In addition to trade, tourism continues to play a significant role in strengthening ties, with Fiji welcoming 70,794 tourists in January 2024 alone, including 12,373 visitors from New Zealand. This influx of tourists not only underscores the close links but also reflects the cultural and economic connections growing between the two nations.
The AGM brought about new committee members, re-electing Trusler as president alongside important figures such as Anare Manulevu, Cama Raimuria, and Jeetender Rai, indicating strong governance to support ongoing bilateral relations.
These developments highlight a promising phase in Fiji-New Zealand economic partnerships, suggesting that continued collaboration could yield further opportunities for growth and strengthen the bonds between the two nations. This optimism is encouraged by strategic goals and mutual commitments aimed at fostering deeper economic interrelation and cultural exchanges.
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