Fiji is poised to enter 2026 with increasing investor confidence, solid economic fundamentals, and a revitalized partnership between the government and the private sector, according to Finance Minister Esrom Immanuel. This collaborative approach is designed to accelerate the country’s growth and economic transformation.
Immanuel expressed that the government remains pro-business and is dedicated to facilitating a conducive environment for enterprises to thrive. He pointed to several positive indicators of a robust economy, including liquidity exceeding $2.2 billion, foreign reserves close to $3.8 billion, and an increase in private-sector credit. Additionally, the Reserve Bank has raised its growth forecast for 2025 to 3.4 percent, further supporting the optimistic outlook.
The government’s reform agenda is aimed at modernizing systems, simplifying processes, and redesigning policies that hinder growth. This includes key modifications to Environmental Management, Town Planning, and Public Health legislation, along with the implementation of digital permitting, which are vital steps in the trajectory of transformation.
Fiji is also placing significant emphasis on economic diversification to decrease dependence on any single sector. The government is focusing on areas like renewable energy, digital services, agriculture, manufacturing, and ultra-premium tourism. This shift aims to foster communities across Fiji as hubs of innovation and opportunity.
Investment Fiji CEO Kamal Chetty noted an uptick in investor engagement across various sectors, including agriculture, business process outsourcing (BPO), real estate, and tourism. Several multinational projects are anticipated to launch in 2025, signaling stronger long-term commitments from investors.
Moreover, FCEF CEO Edward Benard emphasized the importance of pairing this investor momentum with fair and sustainable labor and employment reforms. He commended the government’s efforts to engage in consultations to ensure a balanced approach to these reforms.
In conclusion, Immanuel stressed the necessity for the government, investors, and employers to work synergistically to capitalize on what he terms Fiji’s “decade of opportunity.” He underscored the importance of every business, idea, and ambition in driving national transformation, painting a hopeful picture for the future of Fiji’s economy.
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