Fiji has indicated that it will not join the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations (PACER) Plus unless it aligns with the country’s interests. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives and Small Medium Enterprises, Manoa Kamikamica, made this statement during PACER Plus consultations in Suva, where the coalition government is reviewing the potential of joining the trade and development agreement.
Although Fiji was a participant in the negotiations for PACER Plus, it chose not to sign due to concerns that the agreement did not offer sufficient flexibility and benefits to outweigh the associated risks and costs. Kamikamica emphasized that Fiji’s engagement in the negotiations stemmed from its commitment to promoting regional cooperation and ensuring that trade agreements function effectively as instruments for development.
He acknowledged the importance of enhancing trade within the Pacific but stressed the need for close examination of the agreement. “PACER Plus has the potential to create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and improve the livelihoods of our people by enhancing market access and leveraging trade values,” he stated.
Kamikamica noted that both the domestic and international economic environments have evolved, necessitating a thorough analysis to determine whether the agreement, in its present form, aligns with Fiji’s development goals and sufficiently addresses the structural changes required by the Fijian economy. This includes efforts to diversify and expand the country’s limited export base, strengthen supply chain resilience, and address trade deficits, particularly with Australia and New Zealand.
He reiterated the government’s duty to ensure that any trade agreement pursued is fair, equitable, development-oriented, and beneficial to Fiji. “It is essential that embarking on PACER Plus serves the interests of Fiji,” he remarked, emphasizing the importance of reassessing whether the choice to remain outside PACER Plus continues to be in the nation’s best interest.
Kamikamica concluded by stating that collaborative efforts are needed to assess if PACER Plus can genuinely serve as a beacon for sustainable development, as intended.