The Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations is closely monitoring the evolving conflict in the Middle East and its potential impact on global employment, travel and economic stability.
The ministry says recent escalations in the region are already affecting international aviation routes, with reports of airspace closures forcing airlines to reroute flights away from key transit corridors.
These changes are expected to increase travel times and operational costs for airlines, particularly as global fuel prices continue to rise.
Permanent Secretary for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, Maritino Nemani, said that although the situation is still developing, disruptions of this scale can indirectly affect small island economies such as Fiji.
He noted that tourism remains a key pillar of Fiji’s economy, supporting thousands of jobs directly and indirectly across the country.
“Any disruption to international travel has the potential to affect visitor arrivals, and this may in turn impact employment in tourism and related sectors. While it is too early to determine the full extent of these impacts, it is important that we remain aware of the evolving situation.”
Mr Nemani also acknowledged that Fijian workers participating in overseas employment programmes could be affected.
“Our Fijian workers in programmes such as the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme and the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme in Australia and New Zealand may also feel the effects of these disruptions, including, in some cases, prolonging the time workers spend away from their families,” he said.
The ministry says it will continue monitoring developments and working closely with relevant government agencies and stakeholders to assess any potential impacts on Fiji’s labour market.
Mr Nemani said Fiji has historically shown resilience during challenging times and urged continued cooperation and preparedness as the global situation unfolds.
