Fiji’s Chief Statistician, Apisalome Tamani, has revealed concerning data gaps, stating that as of last year, 42% of the country’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) indicators remain untracked due to insufficient data. During the “Strengthening Fiji National Data System” workshop, he underscored the urgent need for improved coordination and a comprehensive government approach to statistics, particularly in relation to connections between the economy and the natural environment.
Tamani highlighted that more than $2 billion of Fiji’s economic activity—representing at least 20% of its gross value—depends on goods and services derived from natural ecosystems. This includes agriculture, which contributes around 8% to the GDP and relies heavily on a healthy environment for essential processes like pollination and rainfall. Furthermore, tourism, which can account for nearly 40% of GDP, is fundamentally tied to the states of the country’s reefs, forests, and beaches.
These vital links between nature and Fiji’s economic health are not fully represented in current national statistics. Tamani commented, “Without them, we risk undervaluing our natural capital in policy and investment decisions,” but he also pointed out that progress is being made. The Fiji Bureau of Statistics has launched the Fiji National Data Portal to enhance data accessibility and transparency, indicating steps towards better measurement systems.
To bolster the effectiveness of data collection, amendments to the Statistical Act are in place to strengthen the bureau’s authority and ability to gather, coordinate, and disseminate official statistics across various government sectors. The workshop provided a platform to build on past progress, foster inter-sector collaboration, and strategize on addressing existing data gaps while developing an integrated national data system that connects environmental, economic, and social data frameworks.
This initiative aligns with Fiji’s broader strategy for tackling the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and is underscored by recent investments in improved data infrastructure, which were highlighted in previous reports. The Fiji Bureau of Statistics is set to receive increased funding and staffing support to meet escalating demands for timely and quality data, and to move toward a more autonomous and independent operational structure.
As Fiji navigates through these challenges, the collective aim remains clear: to ensure that robust data informs effective policies that can drive sustainable development and equitably benefit all Fijians. With ongoing collaborative efforts and a commitment to strengthening their statistical foundation, there is a hopeful outlook for Fiji’s progress in the coming years.
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