FIJI’S trade commission in New Zealand facilitated more than $30million in exports for the island nation in the first half of this financial year – an increase of $10m against the same period last year.
Similarly, the trade commission facilitated some 11 registered investment projects from New Zealand valued at $4.8m, which span sectors such as agriculture, real estate and manufacturing; with a 60:1 return on investments ratio.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade Manoa Kamikamica revealed this in parliament as he acknowledged the work of the trade commissions in facilitating trade and investments for Fiji.
For the 2023-2024 financial year, Mr Kamikamica said the office facilitated 17 foreign direct investment (FDI) projects worth around $8.9m, and it also facilitated around $62m in exports.
He swaid the trade commission had facilitated several tourism investment projects in value added tourism products, including yacht charter services and superyacht gathering.
He added numerous other high value niche projects were in the pipeline with the focus on eco-tourism and agro forestry.
“Fiji remains the only Pacific island country among New Zealand’s top 20 trading partners. Our market engagement shows sustained and growing demand for our exports,” Mr Kamikamica said.
He said businesses in Auckland, Hamilton and Wellington continued to serve as key distributors helping Fijian MSMEs gain access to supermarkets and convenient stores around the country.
The DPM outlined some key initiatives led and facilitated by the Fiji Trade Commission in Auckland, including the office’s participation in the Auckland baby show, Pacific Fusion Fashion Show and the Auckland and Wellington food shows.
He said as a result of those efforts, 40 stores across New Zealand now stock Juice Fiji and more than 19 stores stock Fiji Fire hot sauce.
