Fiji is making substantial progress towards enhancing its digital economy, highlighted by the recent comments from Ministry of Trade permanent secretary Shaheen Ali. Speaking at the Fiji Institute of Chartered Accountants congress, he emphasized the necessity of digitalization as it becomes the new foundation for economic growth and business competitiveness. Currently, over 5.5 billion individuals are online globally, with an impressive 85.2 percent of Fijians having internet access. This is expected to drive the digital economy to exceed $16 trillion by 2028.
Mr. Ali pointed out that while the Internet is growing rapidly, Fijian businesses, particularly micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), still face hurdles such as long queues and complex processes that deter investment and impede growth. He referenced the National Digital Strategy 2025-2030, which aims to equip Fijian businesses for effective competition in an interconnected world.
“Connectivity without protection is a risk,” Mr. Ali warned, stressing the importance of having a robust legal framework to guide these digital transformations. Additionally, he highlighted the significant role of MSMEs, which constitute over 80 percent of registered businesses in Fiji, reiterating that their digital transformation is crucial for economic development.
By leveraging digital platforms for e-commerce, MSMEs can enhance market visibility and foster connections with customers and suppliers. This digital shift not only enables better decision-making but can also encourage investments and job creation, which is vital for a thriving economy.
Interestingly, this discourse aligns with Fiji’s broader National Digital Strategy that aims to solidify its position as a regional digital hub, ensuring that every Fijian business has the tools needed to thrive in the global digital economy. The government’s commitment to this transformation is a hopeful sign of a future brimming with opportunities for innovation and economic empowerment.
Overall, as Fiji embraces the digital era, the potential for local entrepreneurs to connect with worldwide markets grows, paving the way toward a resilient and inclusive economy that can transform the lives of its citizens.
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