Fiji’s trade commission in New Zealand has successfully facilitated over $30 million in exports during the first half of the current financial year, reflecting a significant increase of $10 million compared to the same timeframe last year. This achievement highlights the growing demand for Fijian products in New Zealand, where Fiji ranks as one of New Zealand’s top 20 trading partners.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Manoa Kamikamica, shared these updates in parliament, recognizing the crucial role the trade commissions play in boosting trade and investments for Fiji. In addition to the export growth, the trade commission also supported 11 registered investment projects from New Zealand totaling approximately $4.8 million, covering diverse sectors such as agriculture, real estate, and manufacturing, which have shown an impressive return on investment ratio of 60:1.
For the 2023-2024 financial year, the commission has already facilitated 17 foreign direct investment (FDI) projects valued at around $8.9 million and assisted in generating approximately $62 million in exports. Notably, several initiatives within the tourism sector, including yacht charter services and superyacht events, have also been successfully launched.
Kamikamica emphasized the importance of ongoing engagement with businesses in key areas like Auckland, Hamilton, and Wellington, where Fijian products are finding their way into numerous supermarkets and convenience stores across New Zealand. Efforts to promote Fijian goods have led to 40 stores stocking Juice Fiji and over 19 stores carrying Fiji Fire hot sauce.
This positive trend is reminiscent of previous announcements about the overall increase in trade relations between Fiji and New Zealand, which surpassed NZ$1.39 billion (approximately FJD 1.89 billion) as of early this year. The anticipated future growth, alongside various investment projects, indicates a strong and cooperative economic relationship between the two nations.
Overall, these developments suggest a hopeful outlook for Fiji’s trade initiatives, opening doors to further opportunities for economic growth and strengthening ties with New Zealand. The sustained focus on high-value niche projects, particularly in eco-tourism and agro-forestry, highlights a forward-thinking approach that promises to enhance Fiji’s global market presence.
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