THE Fiji Australia Business Council and the Market Development Facility (MDF) have formalised a new strategic partnership, via a Memorandum of Understanding, in a collaborative move to strengthen the export readiness of Fiji’s agri-food manufacturing small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The MoU was signed by FABC president Himen Chandra and Australia-based MDF team leader Oliver Mathieson in Suva yesterday. This joint initiative to deliver an Agri-Food Manufacturing SME Export Accelerator Program will support high-potential Fijian businesses in overcoming market entry barriers and enable a successful expansion into the Australian market.
MDF Fiji country director Kelera Cavuilati said they were supporting FABC through this accelerator to give Fijian agri-food manufacturers practical, structured, hands-on support and Australian market insights through FABC’s strong Fiji-Australia business networks.
“Successful exports mean stronger businesses, new jobs and more resilient value chains in Fiji’s manufacturing sector. That is the long-term outcome we are working toward,” Ms Cavuilati said.
Mr Chandra said the partnership responded to a timely opportunity to strengthen Fiji’s export sector.
“Fiji’s agri-food manufacturers have significant potential to compete internationally, yet many face persistent challenges related to compliance, packaging, logistics and market access,” he said. He added the initiative directly supported their strategic priorities of strengthening SME capability, promoting trade and deepening commercial ties between Fiji and Australia.
“This accelerator translates those priorities into real action with measurable outcomes for local businesses.”
The accelerator will provide tailored learning modules delivered through a mix of self-paced online content, interactive webinars, and in-person workshops. There are about 10 scholarships available for SMEs to apply for, with the FABC indicating it will sponsor about six to eight successful SMEs candidates. Applications for this inaugural accelerator cohort are expected to open in the coming weeks.
FABC president Himen Chandra and MDF team leader Oliver Mathieson sign the MoU to jointly deliver an Agri-Food Manufacturing SME Export Accelerator Program.
Picture: TIMOCI VULA
FABC president Himen Chandra and MDF team leader Oliver Mathieson with the copies of the MoU, pictured with FABC board members and MDF Fiji officials after the signing at the FHL Tower in Suva yesterday. Picture: TIMOCI VULA
