Fiji will reconsider joining the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations (PACER) Plus only if it is deemed beneficial for the nation. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives and Small Medium Enterprises Manoa Kamikamica made this statement during the PACER Plus consultations held in Suva. The coalition government is currently assessing the potential of entering this trade and development agreement.
Although Fiji actively participated in the PACER Plus negotiations, it chose not to sign the agreement due to insufficient flexibility and benefits compared to the risks and costs involved. Mr. Kamikamica emphasized that Fiji’s role in the negotiations was motivated by the desire to promote regional cooperation and ensure that trade agreements are effective tools for development.
He acknowledged the importance of enhancing Pacific trade but mentioned that any opportunity in this area requires thorough examination. He stated that PACER Plus could potentially generate jobs, stimulate economic growth, and improve living standards by enhancing market access and increasing trade values.
Mr. Kamikamica highlighted the necessity for a detailed evaluation of the agreement, considering the changing economic landscape both domestically and internationally. This includes analyzing whether the current form of PACER Plus aligns with Fiji’s development objectives and can adequately address necessary structural changes within the Fijian economy, such as expanding the export base and correcting trade deficits with Australia and New Zealand.
He affirmed the government’s responsibility to ensure that any trade agreement pursued is fair, equitable, development-driven, and genuinely beneficial for Fiji. The Deputy Prime Minister underscored the need to safeguard national interests and focus on tangible benefits for the population, stating that joining PACER Plus must align with the country’s interests.
Finally, he stressed the importance of re-evaluating whether the initial decision to remain outside PACER Plus still serves Fiji’s best interests, urging collaboration to assess if the agreement can truly act as a catalyst for sustainable development as intended.