The micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) sector is projected to experience significant growth and increase its economic contribution by 2026, according to Fiji’s Minister for Finance, Esrom Immanuel. This assertion follows the introduction of two major initiatives aimed at enhancing the MSME landscape: the MSME Strategic Plan 2025-2030 and the National MSME Database.
Currently, MSMEs play a vital role in Fiji’s economy, contributing approximately 18 percent to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). However, with the implementation of the newly launched frameworks, this figure is expected to increase considerably. Immanuel stated, “This is another step forward to try and increase MSMEs, not only in numbers but in terms of the size of their business from micro, small, to medium and then they can grow into big enterprises.”
The minister forecasts that by 2026, the contribution of MSMEs to GDP could rise between 20 and 25 percent, with the government aiming for an ambitious 50 percent growth by 2030. Immanuel added, “For 2026, as probably stated in the plan, that is to move from 18 percent to even 20, 24 to 25 percent, and after that, a few more years before we can reach the 50 percent target.”
Supporting this vision, the Permanent Secretary for Commerce expressed optimism about the MSME sector’s prospects, highlighting the importance of the new initiatives in fostering enterprise growth. He emphasized that Fiji now benefits from a coordinated framework designed to bolster productivity and enhance the contribution of MSMEs to both national output and employment.
With these developments, there is a growing sense of business confidence in Fiji, indicating that through sustained partnerships and effective implementation of these initiatives, MSMEs are set to become a crucial driver of the country’s economic resilience and long-term development. The future appears promising as efforts to enhance the MSME sector are put into action, which could ultimately lead to a thriving economic landscape in Fiji.
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