Japanese investors are turning their focus to aviation infrastructure in Fiji’s energy sector. This interest coincides with the launch of a dozen new businesses backed by Japanese funding, supported by five foreign investors. The initiative, endorsed by the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, reflects increasing commercial confidence in the Pacific region and Fiji.
This development follows Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s support for Japan as the sole Pacific island economy involved in last year’s Fukushima waste disposal discussion. Komiyama Yasuji, the Director General for Trade Policy and Economic Cooperation at Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, emphasized the potential benefits of these investments, particularly in enhancing Fiji’s human resources sector.
“We have Japanese companies collaborating with locals and sharing knowledge,” Yasuji stated. He encouraged more Japanese businesses to consider opportunities in Fiji, particularly startups that address social issues in Japan while expanding internationally.
Yasuji highlighted that green transformation initiatives, such as hydrogen production and energy technology, hold significant promise given the pressing issue of climate change. He noted this shift in focus marks a departure from more traditional investor interests in sectors like airports and infrastructure.
“Japanese companies are eager to explore overseas markets, and this region is attracting considerable interest,” Yasuji commented. He added that manufacturing, a strong suit for Japan, presents further opportunities for business development in Fiji.
“The critical component is human resources. The country can determine the type of manufacturing it needs, and we are willing to assist,” he concluded. Fiji Airports did not respond to inquiries before the publication of this article.
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