The Reserve Bank of Fiji (RBF) has released its February Economic Review, indicating positive trends in the labor market showing stabilization. One of the significant findings is that the number of Fijian citizens emigrating abroad has seen a considerable decline, with a 27.3 percent drop reported in January compared to the previous year. This reduction is attributed to more stringent immigration and employment policies in Australia, which have limited opportunities for Fijians aiming to work or settle there.
In another notable trend, Fiji has also witnessed a significant decrease in the number of foreign workers. The number dropped by 66.5 percent in January, following an increase of 31.2 percent in 2024. Despite this recent decline, foreign labor continues to play an essential role in Fiji’s workforce, contributing to a dynamic labor market.
Encouragingly, the review highlights a two percent increase in formal employment for 2024, driven by higher registrations within key sectors such as wholesale and retail trade, accommodation and food services, transport, and administrative support. This growth in formal jobs marks a positive shift, providing new opportunities for the local workforce.
Overall, while the emigration of Fijians is declining and the number of foreign workers has decreased, the labor market in Fiji is stabilizing, with growth being noted in formal employment sectors. This suggests a shift toward a more sustainable labor environment, potentially paving the way for enhanced job security and economic resilience in the future.
It is hopeful to see that with decreasing emigration, there may be opportunities for returning skilled Fijians to contribute to local growth, fostering a stable economic outlook. As the labor market adjusts to these changing dynamics, Fiji could be on the brink of re-establishing a robust and thriving workforce.
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