Concerns are rising over Fiji’s growing reliance on imported labor as thousands of local workers are sent abroad under formal work programs. Former parliamentarian and lawyer Niko Nawaikula highlighted this issue, questioning the logic behind importing foreign workers for low-skilled jobs such as sugar cane cutting and bus driving while many Fijians seek employment overseas in similar roles.
Nawaikula expressed frustration with this disparity on social media, pointing out that more than 15,000 Fijians are employed in Australia and New Zealand through programs like Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) and Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE). He emphasized that the number of workers participating in the PALM scheme alone has increased by over 2200% over the past few years. Despite this, Fiji continues to import foreign workers for even basic roles, suggesting a need for systemic review.
The call to prioritize local employment aligns with ongoing discussions about Fiji’s labor market, where foreign workers are increasingly filling positions typically held by locals. This has led to calls for better oversight, fair recruitment practices, and investment in local workforce development. The Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation, alongside other industry voices, have urged for strategies that support local job creation, stressing the need for targeted training programs to close skill gaps and reduce dependence on foreign labor.
Further highlighting the issue, Minister for Immigration Viliame Naupoto and others have raised concerns about the potential exploitation of foreign workers. Reports of dangerous working conditions have surfaced, prompting plans for stricter labor laws to protect both local and foreign workers.
Previous discussions within the Fijian government have also addressed overseas work schemes and their impact on local employment. Registration for schemes like PALM has been limited to the genuinely unemployed, aiming to balance the benefits of overseas work opportunities with the necessity of sustaining local job markets. However, challenges remain in ensuring fair selection and reintegration processes for Fijians returning from overseas stints.
The overlapping conditions of local labor shortages and the complicated dynamics of international labor mobility pose significant challenges. Yet, they offer an opportunity for Fiji to implement strategic reforms and create a more robust and equitable job market that benefits both its citizens and the economy at large. By crafting a collaborative approach that involves government, employers, and training institutions, Fiji can work towards sustainable growth that prioritizes its people.