Members of the New Zealand-Fiji Business Council (NZFBC) are working diligently to achieve a significant bilateral trade goal of $2 billion by 2030, a target originally established during New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s inaugural visit to Fiji last year. This upcoming initiative showcases the NZFBC’s commitment to fostering trade and investment relations between New Zealand and Fiji.
According to Investment Fiji, the NZFBC is set to embark on a business mission to Fiji from July 14 to 18, aimed at enhancing connections with key stakeholders, government agencies, and the private sector in Suva and Nadi. NZFBC president Chandar Sen emphasized that this business mission builds upon previous undertakings to stimulate trade and investment.
Investment Fiji stated that the NZFBC has been collaborating with the Fiji Trade Commission and local government entities to optimize this opportunity for members, thereby strengthening their “Vuvale” (family) relations. Fiji is increasingly viewed as a crucial trade partner for New Zealand, and this mission highlights the growing recognition of that relationship.
Sen mentioned that the trip will allow New Zealand businesses to gain invaluable insights into the Fijian market and explore potential investment avenues. The program includes high-level discussions, industry briefings, targeted business matching sessions, and strategic networking events, which will provide attendees with first-hand exposure to Fiji’s dynamic business landscape.
In recent months, trade relations between the two countries have already demonstrated significant progress, with figures reaching approximately NZD 1.4 billion. This figure consists of New Zealand exports to Fiji valued at NZD 841.92 million, while Fiji’s exports to New Zealand accounted for NZD 533.39 million. As of January 2024, Fiji welcomed nearly 71,000 tourists from New Zealand, highlighting the cultural as well as economic ties strengthening between the two nations.
The continued focus on collaboration and shared objectives among businesses in New Zealand and Fiji offers a promising outlook for future economic partnerships. With strategic initiatives in place, there is optimism that both countries will see expanded growth opportunities, benefiting their respective economies and fostering deeper interpersonal connections.
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