IN a heartfelt farewell hosted by the Fiji New Zealand Business Council, outgoing New Zealand High Commissioner to Fiji, Charlotte Darlow, highlighted the
TWO-WAY trade between Fiji and New Zealand now sits at $1.3 billion at the close of 2025, dropping a billion since last year, when the two countries set their target to reach $2billion by 2030.
Despite the fluctuations on the flatline, outgoing New Zealand High Commissioner to Fiji Charlotte Darlow said the trade goal was “ambitious but achievable.”
“We have a very strong basis to start from,” Ms Darlow said, in an interview with this newspaper at the Fiji-New Zealand Business Council (FNZBC) Christmas cocktail on Thursday night, her final function with the council before she returns home early next year.
“We’re already at about $1.3 billion. Fiji for us is a bigger trading partner than France, which I think surprises lots of New Zealanders.”
The High Commissioner emphasised that robust tourism, expanding infrastructure, and a vibrant business process outsourcing (BPO) sector are fuelling growth, alongside a dynamic entrepreneurial spirit in Fiji.
“When we look at some of the things that are happening in the innovation space, Fiji is really well placed to make the most of those opportunities.”
Ms Darlow’s farewell coincides with Fiji’s deepening relationship with New Zealand, marked by the Duavata partnership and ongoing discussions on PACER Plus, a regional trade agreement spearheaded by Australia and New Zealand with a number of Pacific Island countries, although Fiji has not joined.
Darlow called the partnership “very special” and noted the potential benefits for Fiji, particularly in easing access to export pathways and strengthening regional collaboration.
Beyond trade, Darlow recounted her fondest memories of Fiji’s open-hearted people, the chance to travel widely, and the impact of development projects at the community level.
“Fiji is now part of my family’s imprint,” she said, expressing gratitude for the enduring ties forged during her work here.
Upon her departure, Ms Darlow leaves behind a legacy of strengthened economic and social ties, and a clear vision for the next chapter in Fiji–New Zealand relations.
