THE 33rd Prime Minister’s International Business Awards (PMIBA) was staged at the Denarau Convention Centre, Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort in Nadi last Saturday.
Known as the nation’s biggest business awards, the annual event brought together business leaders, policy-makers, academics, and professionals for a night of recognition of their excellence, innovation, resilience and more importantly, contribution towards the growth of the Fijian economy.
The 2025 PMIBA theme was Navigating Global Winds: Resilience, Innovation, and Sustainable Growth.
According to event organiser Investment Fiji, this year’s theme reflected the necessity for resilience in the face of a shifting global economic landscape, recognising the strength of Fijian enterprises in overcoming challenges and emerging stronger.
While delivering Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s address, MP Manoa Kamikamica acknowledged the hard work and sacrifice of all businesses present at the 2025 PMIBA.
“Tonight, we gather for the 2025 Prime Minister’s International Business Awards, the most distinguished event in Fiji’s business calendar,” Mr Kamikamica said.
“This is a true celebration of excellence.
“I extend my sincere gratitude to the organisers, sponsors, and partners whose dedication has made this evening possible, and to the business community whose vision, belief and tenacity continue to drive our nation forward.
“This occasion is more than an awards ceremony; it is a national platform that honours innovation, leadership, and the entrepreneurial spirit that underpins Fiji’s economic growth.
“On behalf of the Government and the people of Fiji, I thank you for your belief in our country, the risks you have taken, the opportunities you have created, and the livelihoods you sustain.
“Let tonight not only recognise achievement but inspire us all to aim higher, innovate boldly, and work together to build a future of shared prosperity for Fiji and beyond.”
Mr Kamikamica said the story of Fiji’s economic success was not confined to charts or reports but rather it was written in the vision, resilience, and determination represented at the prestigious awards night.
“The ambition we celebrate tonight is the driving force behind our national development and our growing competitiveness on the global stage.
“Every investment you make and every innovation you pursue strengthens our economy and creates opportunities for Fijian families across the country.
“Your resilience in navigating global challenges and your commitment to innovation have positioned Fiji as a dynamic player in the Pacific economy.
“This is not a claim of aspiration, it is a fact, grounded in your achievements.”
He said Fiji’s economy rebounded strongly with growth of 9.4 per cent in 2023, followed by a provisional 3.5 per cent expansion in 2024, driven by services, agriculture, and manufacturing sectors.
“The Reserve Bank projects a further 3.2 per cent growth this year, confirming Fiji’s economic strength and leadership in the region,” Mr Kamikamica said.
“As the Government, we remain steadfast in creating an enabling environment for growth through sound fiscal management, investment in infrastructure, and policies that foster innovation and sustainability.
“Together, we are building an economy that is resilient, competitive, and ready for the future. “As we celebrate the remarkable success of businesses tonight, we also celebrate the strength and momentum of our economy. But progress must be sustained. To ensure this path endures, our achievements are guided by clear and strategic policy frameworks that address the fundamentals of growth.”
Mr Kamikamica said at the heart of this vision was the National Development Plan 2025–2029 and Vision 2050 – Fiji’s national roadmap for prosperity.
“It is anchored on three pillars: economic resilience, people empowerment, and good governance. “Together, these principles form the foundation for transformative change that delivers better growth and greater opportunities for current and future generations.
“Our journey since independence 55 years ago tells a powerful story.
“From heavy reliance on subsistence farming and sugar production to a broad-based structure with diverse industries and sectors driving progress.”
He said the Coalition Government, through the National Development Plan, has set targets.
“We are investing strategically in key sectors: moving agriculture beyond sugar to commercial production, strengthening tourism through world-class infrastructure, and positioning Fiji as a rising hub for international trade and communication in the Pacific.”
Mr Kamikamica emphasised to the nominees and winners of the 2025 PMIBA, they were the driving force of Fiji’s economy.
“Your achievements are not just business successes; they are the stories that bring our national vision to life.
“You have shown that profitability and sustainability can go hand in hand, and that the determination of the Fijian spirit knows no boundaries. You are proof that with courage, innovation, and integrity, we can break barriers and reach new frontiers of growth.”
Investment Fiji chair Jenny Seeto (front) with MP Manoa Kamikamica arrive at the Prime Minister’s International Business Awards at Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort, Denarau Island, Nadi. Pictures: BALJEET SINGH
