WOMEN’S 32 per cent participation in the labour force is projected to reach 60 per cent by 2030, according to Women, Children and Social Protection Minister Sashi Kiran.
Similarly, the 19 per cent share of women owning registered micro small enterprises is targeted to rise to 50 per cent by 2029.
Ms Kiran told the launch of Fiji Women’s Economic Empowerment National Action Plan 2025-2030 the plan would ensure women across the country had opportunities and support for economic growth and financial inclusion.
“In this plan, you will see, which has been translated simply in different languages, that there are very specific targets to significantly improve women’s participation and representation across key sectors,” she said.
Ms Kiran said efforts were also underway to elevate women’s representation in Parliament from the existing 10 per cent to at least 30 per cent.
“In leadership, you all know that our Parliament has only five women out of 55, so we are hoping to see women across Fiji, whether in agriculture, market vendors, fisheries, education, health, tourism sector, small businesses, or informal work.
“You form the backbone of our economy. Yet, often, the full potential of our women is unrealised due to deeply entrenched inequalities.”
Ms Kiran said Fiji was ranked 128 out of 146 countries in the Global Gender Gap 2024 report.
This was exacerbated with significant gender gaps remaining in economic participation, political participation, and access to education and health care.
“A recent study released by the Reserve Bank shows that women remain underserved as individuals and business owners.
“Less women than men, particularly in the 15–35 age bracket, have bank accounts and women-owned businesses.”
