The upcoming 29th Australia-Fiji Business Forum is scheduled to take place from October 22 to 24, 2025, at the Hilton Surfers Paradise Hotel. This significant event aims to bring together business leaders, policymakers, and industry experts for a comprehensive three-day program centered on trade, investment, and economic transformation.
Queensland’s Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training, Roslyn (Ros) Bates, will officially open the forum. The second day promises a dynamic exchange of ideas, featuring welcome remarks from Australia Fiji Business Council President Zane Yoshida, along with keynote presentations from representatives of the Australian Government and Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister, Manoa Kamikamica.
Attendees can expect a detailed Macroeconomic and Financial Briefing, which will include insights from Fiji’s Minister for Finance, Biman Prasad, and Westpac’s Pacific Economist, Justin Smirk. Additionally, breakout sessions will explore vital topics such as Supporting Growth of Fijian Businesses, featuring contributions from Saud Minam from the Asian Development Bank and Kelera Cavuilati of the Market Development Facility.
A major focus will be placed on Fiji’s investment landscape during the Investment Promotion and Outcomes session, with participation from Investment Fiji CEO Kamal Chetty and other influential speakers. The Business Process Outsourcing session, led by Josefa Wivou of Outsource Fiji, promises to present an eye-opening case study from KPMG Fiji’s Managing Partner, Lisa Apted.
Moreover, discussions on Growing Fiji’s Agricultural Exports will include insights from Agriculture Minister Tomasi Tunabuna, along with input from representatives at the Australian Office of Drug Control.
On the final day, an Infrastructure Opportunities session will allow dialogue between leaders from Fiji’s Ministry of Public Works, Water Authority, and various key agencies, exploring innovative solutions for a sustainable Fiji. Sessions on Supporting Bilateral Trade and Investment will feature perspectives from trade experts including Leata Alaimoana of Trade and Investment Queensland and Tim Houghton from Austrade Suva.
The Digitalisation of Fiji session will spotlight the role of technology in shaping the country’s economic future, with representatives from tech giants like Google Fiji and cybersecurity leaders such as ID Care participating. Additionally, forward-looking discussions surrounding Green Climate Funding Opportunities will be led by Professor Paul Dargusch from Monash Business School’s Pacific Action for Climate Transitions.
The forum will conclude with remarks from Himen Chandra, President of the Fiji Australia Business Council, as participants reflect on the collaborative efforts aimed at strengthening regional cooperation and developing innovative business solutions.
This event symbolizes the enduring partnership between Australia and Fiji, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and collaboration in overcoming challenges and unlocking new economic possibilities for both nations. With a focus on strategic engagement, the forum stands as a testament to the shared commitment of both countries to foster growth and economic development.