Fiji is charting a new path for its trade and investment future with the launch of the country’s second National Trade Policy Framework, spanning 2025 to 2036. The framework builds on the gains of the 2015 first framework, which helped Fiji establish itself as a more confident participant in global trade. Permanent Secretary for Trade Shaheen Ali underscored that the evolving global trading environment and Fiji’s changing economic realities necessitate a plan that serves the people and is driven by both citizens and the private sector.
A core pillar of the new policy is adapting to emerging realities, notably the rapid expansion of digital trade and e-commerce. The plan aims to harness digital platforms to broaden market access for Fijian exporters and give small businesses and rural producers new ways to compete internationally. In parallel, FRIEND Fiji Acting CEO Viloki Gohil highlighted the need to close training gaps between Vanua Levu and Viti Levu to ensure grassroots communities are not left behind as the economy modernizes. Trade Consultant Professor Chris Noonan added that exporters stress the importance of stronger access to export markets, and the Labasa visit underscored the importance of listening to local exporters and producers across Fiji’s diverse regions.
The ministry emphasizes that the framework is intended to be inclusive—serving large corporations as well as SMEs, cooperatives, women, and youth entrepreneurs—and aims to boost Fiji’s global competitiveness while preserving social equity. The policy aligns with broader national development ambitions, including Fiji’s Vision 2050 and the 2025-2029 National Development Plan, and it sits within a wider push to diversify the economy beyond traditional sectors.
Context from related planning underscores a broader strategy: national efforts to diversify and modernize the economy have repeatedly stressed investment in high-value, technology-driven industries, digital government services, and improved infrastructure to support trade and investment. Analysts and government officials alike point to the importance of balancing revenue considerations with growth and resilience, particularly in light of global trade tensions and shifting tariff dynamics. The conversation around tariff reform and market diversification—along with ongoing work on digital trade policies—suggests that Fiji intends to pursue a nuanced, sector-aware approach to trade policy rather than a one-size-fits-all model.
In short, Fiji’s new National Trade Policy Framework signals a continued transition toward a more diversified, digitally enabled, and inclusive economy. By connecting urban and rural areas, expanding access to international markets, and leveraging technology and innovation, the plan aims to build a more resilient economy that benefits all Fijians.
Additional context and value for readers
– Strategic alignment: The framework complements Fiji’s broader development goals, including Vision 2050, and supports the 2025-2029 National Development Plan’s emphasis on sustainable, inclusive growth.
– Digital economy emphasis: With e-commerce thriving globally, Fiji’s focus on digital trade could unlock new revenue streams for MSMEs and rural producers, helping narrow regional disparities.
– Market diversification: Diversifying export destinations—potentially including markets like Canada, Singapore, and Indonesia—helps reduce vulnerability to shocks in any single market.
– Sector-aware reform: A future tariff reform approach that is sector-specific could shield revenue while progressively liberalizing where it makes sense, preserving competitiveness while supporting growth.
– Practical rollout: Bridging capacity-building across islands, expanding export readiness programs, and strengthening collaboration among government, business, and civil society will be critical to turning policy into tangible results.
Summary
Fiji’s second National Trade Policy Framework sets a long-term, inclusive, and digitally focused roadmap for trade and investment from 2025 to 2036, building on past successes and aiming to empower all Fijians through better market access, regional balance, and innovation-driven growth. The plan reflects a hopeful trajectory toward a more resilient and prosperous economy.
Positive note
The emphasis on inclusivity, digital commerce, and regional collaboration offers a promising path to diversified, sustainable growth that can uplift communities across Fiji.
Editorial notes for value-added elements
– Consider adding a sidebar on the five sectors most likely to receive targeted protections versus liberalization under sector-specific reform concepts.
– Include a graphic showing island-by-island training and capacity-building initiatives to visualize the bridging of Vanua Levu and Viti Levu.
– Add a short explainer on how digital trade channels work for small exporters and what investors should know about Fiji’s evolving regulatory environment.
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