Labour shortages have emerged as a significant issue across all sectors in Fiji, particularly impacting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), according to Manoa Kamikamica, the Minister for Trade, Co-operatives, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises. Speaking at the 65th workshop meeting of Heads of National Productivity Organisations held in Nadi, he noted that although the Government has made notable progress in enhancing productivity through various initiatives, the migration of skilled workers has created a considerable obstacle to achieving national productivity objectives.
Kamikamica emphasized the importance of skilled labor for MSMEs, stating, “Labour shortage is a major challenge for all sectors in Fiji, including MSMEs that need the right skills and people to get the job done.” He highlighted the loss of individuals who could significantly impact critical areas such as tourism, healthcare, education, and technology.
To address this challenge, Kamikamica mentioned that the Government is focusing on fostering new industries and investing in essential sectors. He outlined efforts to decentralize services and create a favorable business environment in Fiji by modernizing outdated policies. Furthermore, the establishment of the Investment Facilitation Committee aims to support investors and streamline the investment process.
He added that diversifying the Fijian economy and developing new industries with an emphasis on value addition is a priority. Through the Commercial Agriculture Taskforce, the Government is collaborating with various investors, including Fiji Water and Aitken Spence, to revitalize key agricultural products like kava, cocoa, papaya, citrus, and cassava.