Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister and Trade Minister Manoa Kamikamica has outlined a deeper working relationship with Papua New Guinea on immigration systems and border management, as Fiji moves to modernise its immigration services with an automated, Australia-based platform. Kamikamica noted that the new system will be aligned with the arrangements already in place in PNG and Samoa, promising faster processing for travellers and businesses, stronger border security, and alignment with international best practices. He stressed that the collaboration would involve sharing lessons, technical know-how, and interoperability of systems to ease travel, trade, and investment across both nations.
The announcement sits within a broader push to strengthen Fiji-PNG ties ahead of a series of milestone events. Kamikamica highlighted that September 16, 2025 will mark the 50th anniversary of PNG’s independence and 150 years of historical ties between Fiji and PNG, with Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka set to participate in commemorations that will further strengthen bilateral bonds. The government emphasized that Fiji remains an attractive, reliable partner, maintaining a business-friendly environment, transparent policies, and open channels for dialogue with the private sector.
The immigration and border-management plan builds on a wider wave of cooperation that has characterised recent Fiji-PNG engagement. Earlier in the year, a major business forum in Nadi helped lay groundwork for deeper economic partnership, with momentum carried by a revival of the Fiji-PNG Business Council and ongoing trade missions. In that broader context, Investment Fiji and government agencies have been pursuing 20 or more identified investment opportunities in PNG, focusing on sectors such as agriculture, tourism, ICT, and manufacturing, with targets that could total around $100 million in value.
Earlier reports from the PNG visit noted tangible signals of mutual interest: 11 foreign investment leads and 21 trade leads were generated, with PNG companies showing strong intent to invest in Fiji and Fijian firms outlining concrete entry plans into PNG. This cross-border enthusiasm has been complemented by talks on financial-market cooperation, including plans for closer cooperation between the South Pacific Stock Exchange and PNGX Group and potential dual listings of select companies on both exchanges.
The ongoing dialogue reflects a practical, results-oriented approach to regional integration. Delegations involving government officials, business leaders, and private sector representatives have consistently pursued concrete steps—be it through business forums, information-sharing platforms, or planned bilateral forums—to convert leads into partnerships that create jobs, build skills, and expand government revenue in key sectors.
What this could mean for readers
– Travel and trade may become smoother between Fiji and PNG as border procedures align and border security systems improve.
– Businesses could see fewer barriers and more opportunities to invest in each other’s markets, with potential cross-listings and stronger capital-market links.
– The broader Pacific regional integration trend gains momentum, potentially boosting tourism, labour mobility, and regional resilience.
Summary of context and outlook
– Fiji is modernising its immigration system with an Australia-based platform, aligning with PNG and Samoa.
– The move accompanies a broader economic push, including a revived Fiji-PNG Business Council, a high-profile Nadi forum, and ongoing investment missions.
– Milestones in 2025—PNG’s independence anniversary and long-standing ties with Fiji—will be commemorated with high-level participation, signaling strengthened bilateral cooperation.
– Ancillary developments include multiple investment opportunities targeting around $100 million, a revival of cross-border business dialogue, and potential enhancements in regional financial-market cooperation.
Commentary
The emphasis on interoperable border systems and shared best practices reflects a pragmatic, security-conscious approach to regional integration. If successfully implemented, the immigration upgrades could unlock faster travel and greater mobility for workers, visitors, and investors, while maintaining robust border controls. This aligns with the broader trend of Pacific nations pursuing practical collaboration to expand economic opportunity and strengthen resilience in an interconnected world.
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