Next week, the Australia-Fiji Business Council will focus on agriculture and tourism at an important gathering on the Gold Coast. This event will welcome a high-ranking delegation from the Fijian government, including Deputy Prime Ministers Dr. Biman Prasad, who is in charge of Finance, and Manoa Kamikamica, responsible for Trade and Commerce. Agriculture Minister Tomasi Tunabuna will also be attending, highlighting the gathering as a key platform for discussions on bilateral trade and investment. With Australia being Fiji’s largest trading partner, these discussions are particularly significant.
Leaders from multiple sectors, including aviation and commerce, will be present at the event amid growing interest in Fiji’s agriculture sector. This surge has been bolstered by the involvement of the Sri Lankan conglomerate Aitken Spence PLC, which has recently secured a contract to manage Fiji’s ports. The company aims to modernize commercial farming in the region, utilizing sustainable agro-technology to improve food security and enhance export potential.
Fiji’s strategic proximity to Australia—under five hours by flight—positions its agricultural initiatives for expanded economic advantages. Reports indicate notable investments from several Chinese firms, focusing on large-scale farming aimed at supplying high-quality fruits and vegetables to both Australia and Asian markets. This is further facilitated by Fiji’s collaboration with Australia on biosecurity and quarantine measures, suggesting potential for a significant increase in agricultural trade, benefiting both countries.
The tourism sector is also a major focus, with Australian tourists contributing around $FJD1.5 billion to Fiji’s economy each year. There is an increasing demand for Fijian workers in the Australian tourism industry, which will likely lead to discussions about addressing labor mobility issues.
Kamikamica is expected to emphasize that Fiji provides a stable and welcoming business environment, enriched by a skilled workforce. He will advocate for government initiatives aimed at uplifting the rural economy, promoting agricultural technology, and helping smallholder farmers connect with new market opportunities.
In conclusion, this year’s Australia-Fiji Business Council event stands to be a crucial occasion for strengthening strategic partnerships between the two nations. The discussions are set to foster economic resilience and growth through collaborative ventures in both agriculture and tourism, with significant benefits anticipated for both Australia and Fiji.