Fijians residing in Canada are poised to play a pivotal role in enhancing trade, investment, and business opportunities, bolstered by the recent establishment of a Canadian High Commission in Fiji and the introduction of direct flights between the two nations. These developments are anticipated to strengthen the bilateral relationship significantly.
Canada’s Secretary of State for International Development, Randeep Sarai, noted that improved connectivity and the establishment of an official diplomatic presence are opening new avenues for Fijian-born Canadians. This will enable them to invest, conduct business, and contribute to Fiji’s economic growth more effectively. The advent of direct flights between Fiji and Vancouver has eliminated long-standing travel barriers, facilitating easier access for business leaders, investors, and tourists.
Sarai expressed optimism about the future, stating, “We’re hoping this opens the doorways. Our goal is to increase by 50 percent in five years and 100 percent in 10 years.” He emphasized that with the new direct flights and a high commission in place, the opportunities for business seem limitless.
The newly established High Commission is expected to simplify business expansion by providing essential resources, coordination, and support for companies interested in investing in Fiji. Sarai also envisions that many Fijian-born Canadians may choose to return to Fiji for work or retirement, while others can manage businesses remotely and explore fresh investment avenues.
Canadian companies in sectors such as mining, tourism, construction, and technology, which already have a presence in Fiji, are poised to seize the additional opportunities that arise. Interest is growing in resort developments, tourism collaborations, and technology partnerships led by Canadian innovators with ties to Fiji.
Looking ahead, Sarai highlighted potential collaborations between the new High Commission and the Canada Fiji Business Council, aimed at linking Canadian investors with their Fijian counterparts to facilitate two-way trade and partnerships. Trade between Fiji and Canada is already flourishing, reaching $53 million in 2024—almost double the amount from the previous year—and is projected to continue on an upward trajectory.
Furthermore, tourism has received a significant boost, with the number of Fijians traveling to Canada increasing from approximately 10,000 to over 20,000 since Fiji Airways launched direct flights to Vancouver. This deepening people-to-people connection, coupled with stronger diplomatic and commercial ties, is expected to foster continued investment and economic opportunities for Fiji within North America.
Through these initiatives, both countries are set to benefit, creating a pathway for shared prosperity as Fiji emerges as an essential partner in Canada’s broader strategy to double trade with nations outside North America over the next decade. These developments represent a promising future for both Fijians and Canadians looking to strengthen their economic bonds.