Fiji is taking significant steps to enhance productivity and reduce business costs by establishing two key initiatives: the National Productivity Commission of Fiji and Jobs and Skills Fiji. These government-sanctioned initiatives aim to address the various cost pressures that local businesses face, including regulatory compliance, workforce development, and the challenges of digital transformation.
Maritino Nemani, the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, explained that the new productivity commission will operate independently under the ministry and function on a tripartite model. Jobs and Skills Fiji will be another independent agency focused on improving workforce development.
The productivity commission will focus on four main functions: providing independent research and advice, conducting studies as requested by the government, ongoing performance monitoring, and ensuring competitive neutrality in markets. Mr. Nemani emphasized the importance of grounding policy recommendations in solid evidence, using sophisticated data-sharing protocols to ensure they cater to genuine business needs.
In parallel, the Jobs and Skills Fiji agency will conduct labor market analyses using data from the Bureau of Statistics, forecasting workforce needs for the next five to ten years, and ensuring that training programs align with market demands. By adopting a collaborative approach that involves the private sector, employers, trade unions, and training providers, these initiatives are poised to foster a competitive environment for all businesses.
Overall, these initiatives reflect a proactive stance by the Fijian government to bolster the economy and empower businesses. By focusing on productivity and skill development, Fiji is positioning itself for sustainable growth and innovation, bringing hope for a stronger future for its workforce and economy.
In summary, Fiji is launching two initiatives aimed at improving business productivity and workforce development. These plans reflect the government’s response to various challenges faced by businesses, establishing an independent productivity commission and a dedicated agency for jobs and skills that will work collaboratively with various stakeholders to drive economic growth.
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