The Fijian Government has addressed concerns regarding the impact of migrant workers on the nation’s economy and local employment. Minister for Finance Esrom Immanuel reassured citizens that the increasing number of migrant laborers is not a threat to Fiji’s economy but rather a necessary component to fill existing labor shortages.
In a recent statement, Immanuel emphasized that while income outflows from the country are estimated to be around $400 million, inflows significantly exceed this figure, reaching nearly $1.4 billion last year. He expressed optimism that these inflows would continue to rise, thereby reinforcing the stability of Fiji’s economy despite the presence of migrant workers.
The construction sector has been noted as the primary employer of foreign labor, specifically highlighting the contributions of Bangladeshi workers. Immanuel explained that these workers are intended to temporarily address labor gaps and that their numbers would be managed as local workforce capacity increases. “Bangladeshi workers—they’re here to fill the gaps that exist. They won’t be here for the long term, but once we have sufficient numbers, we will probably slow down the intake of Bangladeshi workers,” the Minister stated.
In addition to addressing labor shortages, the Government is actively working to enhance the skills of local workers. Immanuel announced that training programs and additional funding support are in the pipeline to develop and retain skilled individuals within Fiji, aiming to reduce the reliance on overseas labor in the long run.
This proactive approach reflects the Government’s commitment to strengthening the local workforce while ensuring that the economy continues to thrive with the assistance of temporary migrant workers. Fiji’s efforts to invest in local talent and manage the labor market effectively signal a positive outlook for the nation’s economic stability and growth.
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