Fiji is taking significant steps to enhance its culture of innovation, quality, and sustainable business practices, as emphasized by Acting President and Chief Justice Salesi Temo at the recent 2025 Fiji Business Excellence Awards. Temo expressed his privilege in celebrating the spirit of enterprise and excellence, showcasing Fiji’s vision for a future marked by progress, prosperity, and unity.
At the heart of the event was a commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind as the nation strives for economic growth, national security, and sustainable development. The awards underscored the resilience and dedication of various organizations, spanning small businesses to large corporations, in their endeavors for excellence.
Temo highlighted that the awards not only acknowledge business success but also showcase a commitment to quality, ethical leadership, and continuous improvement. He referenced the National Development Plan 2024-2029 and Vision 2050, reiterating the government’s aim to foster a resilient, people-centered economy fueled by innovation and opportunity, with the private sector playing a crucial role alongside the government and civil society.
Success stories featured at the awards included the Kamal family’s transformation of lockdown challenges into a thriving agri-business focused on international exports and Saunitoga Enterprises from Ovalau, which developed a solar-powered yaqona farm meant for global markets. Additionally, youth-led digital initiatives like High Tech Youth reflect a blend of creativity, culture, and technology that embodies Fiji’s potential.
Temo acknowledged Fiji National University’s National Training and Productivity Centre for its role in promoting innovation and workplace excellence. He noted recent certifications awarded, including the National 5S Certification Program and noteworthy recognitions from Fiji Ports Corporation Limited and Fiji Gateway Hotel. This partnership with the Business Excellence Awards fosters a powerful system for learning, growth, and national progress.
Notably, this year marked the participation of five government agencies in the awards, signaling a strong commitment from the public sector to elevate service standards across the nation. The award recipients, according to Temo, exemplify leadership in innovation, sustainability, and ethical business practices, setting a benchmark for others in the industry.
Temo called upon all Fijians to remain united and determined, expressing confidence that the nation can achieve a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable future. The awards served not just as a celebration of past achievements but as a springboard for continued progress and a source of hope for the business landscape in Fiji. This spirit of collaboration and aspiration may well drive the community toward greater heights, signaling that Fiji’s economic future holds promising possibilities for all its citizens.