Esrom Yosef Immanuel has officially taken up the role of Fiji’s Minister for Finance, Commerce, and Business Development, in a ceremony led by Acting President Justice Salesi Temo at Government House. Immanuel steps into this significant position following the resignation of Professor Biman Prasad, who managed the portfolio since the coalition government assumed office in December 2022. Prior to this appointment, Immanuel served as the Assistant Minister for Finance.
This leadership transition occurs during a time of positive momentum in Fiji’s investment landscape. According to the Reserve Bank of Fiji’s October 2025 Economic Review, there has been a notable strengthening in business confidence, reflected in a 12 percent rise in construction activities’ total work value in the year leading to the second quarter. This growth is fueled by increased public and private sector projects, complemented by a decrease in building material prices, which fell by 3.2 percent in the September quarter.
The Reserve Bank has identified a rise in construction and business investment intentions as indicators of improving confidence in Fiji’s economic outlook. Additionally, construction-related imports surged by 5.1 percent, suggesting a growing demand for machinery and building supplies. However, there was a noted 5 percent decline in new investment lending, largely attributed to reduced credit availability in the real estate and building sectors.
Despite the observed challenges, the Reserve Bank remains optimistic, stating that financial conditions are favorable, with a 10.9 percent increase in the broad money supply as of September, driven by an uptick in private sector credit. This positive perspective suggests continued robustness in investment activity in Fiji in the upcoming months as confidence in the economy builds.
As Immanuel embarks on this critical role, his leadership is expected to guide Fiji toward a more conducive economic environment, enhancing governance and public service delivery. His appointment is aligned with the government’s broader initiative to improve operational efficiency and economic management, fostering a hopeful perspective for Fiji’s economic future.