Central bankers and finance officials from across the Pacific are converging in Fiji this week to focus on enhancing national payment systems and modernizing the region’s economy. The Pacific Fast Payments Systems Workshop, organized by the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS) in collaboration with the Reserve Bank of Fiji and the World Bank Group, will take place from December 3 to December 5, 2025, in Nadi.
This three-day workshop is a centerpiece of the Pacific Strengthening Correspondent Banking Relationships (CBR) Project, a regional initiative funded by the World Bank and spearheaded by the PIFS. During the event, central bank governors, finance officials, and policy leaders will engage in discussions on global trends in fast payments. Key topics include risk management, fraud prevention, emerging technologies, overlay services, and cross-border interlinking.
With over 120 jurisdictions around the globe already implementing fast payment systems, the workshop aims to familiarize the Pacific region with these advancements. This initiative supports necessary reforms in national payment systems, enhances cross-border payments, and promotes financial inclusion among PIFS member countries.
Baron Divavesi Waqa, Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum, highlighted the importance of the workshop for families and businesses, stating, “Fast, secure, and affordable payments are essential to a modern Pacific economy. By strengthening our financial systems and improving the way money moves across borders, we are directly supporting families, businesses, and governments across our Blue Pacific Continent.”
Waqa emphasized that the workshop presents a crucial opportunity for the region to glean insights from global best practices, leading to a more connected, inclusive, and resilient financial future. Ariff Ali, Governor of the Reserve Bank of Fiji, underscored the transformative role of fast payments in banking, enhancing seamless payment experiences. He remarked, “Its significance lies in its ability to drive financial inclusion, accelerate digital transformation, enhance cross-border connectivity, and foster sustainable economic development.”
Ali also indicated that the workshop will address the latest innovations in fast payment systems, regulatory frameworks, adoption possibilities, challenges, and best practices for successful implementation. This initiative marks a significant advancement in modernizing the Pacific’s economy, reinforcing financial systems, and ensuring that the advantages of advanced payment solutions benefit all areas of the region.